Chapter 75 – "The Candidate"
The sky over Seoul was streaked with early morning gold as Gevran and Seol‑Vi met at the campus café to finalize his run for President of the Anti‑Bullying Committee. Steam curled from their coffee cups as students bustled outside.
"I've drafted the application," Seol‑Vi said, sliding a folder across the table. "You just need to fill in your background and your vision."
Gevran took the pen, nerves fluttering in his chest. "What if they reject me? Or worse—think I'm 'too perfect'?"
Seol‑Vi's gaze was firm. "Precisely because you're seen as perfect, they need you. But it's not about perfection—they need someone who's fallen and risen. You are that someone."
Together they sketched out his campaign: digital graphics showing hands lifting others, a short film illustrating hidden scars, interactive empathy workshops in the humanities building. With each idea, their synergy became palpable. Every exchanged glance carried unspoken warmth.
A few days later, during the general meeting, Seol‑Vi stood beside him to introduce his candidacy.
"Gevran has a vision we can't ignore," she announced. "Please welcome his platform."
Gevran's pulse thundered in his ears. He stepped forward.
"I don't just want to lead," he began, voice steady. "I want to ensure no student ever feels truly alone—like I once was. In my first life, I was a poor boy who faced daily bullying. No one cared… until one day, I died from it."
Silence engulfed the hall. Shocked faces, then a ripple of applause—gentle, empathetic, real.
Seol‑Vi squeezed his hand. "Thank you for trusting us with your story. You don't have to carry it alone."
Tears stung his eyes. "Thank you… for believing."
Later, Seol‑Vi pulled him aside to the campus lawn.
"I'm glad you were honest," she said softly. "But you should tell your family too—before it's too late."
Gevran nodded, heart pounding. "I will."
---
That evening, the Yi family home was warm and welcoming. His father, Yi‑Jido, had just returned from an out-of-town visit since his presidential campaign agenda was currently clear. His mother, Yi‑Ana, was arranging dessert plates on the table. Kaeyan was glued to an esports match on TV.
Gevran stood at the doorway of the dining room, his breath caught in his throat.
"Dad, Mom…" he called softly.
They turned to him, their smiles softening into attentive concern.
"There's something I need to tell you," he continued, voice shaky.
He sat down and, for the first time, told them everything: the poverty of his first life, the punches and insults, the loneliness and hunger, and finally, the moment he died. He let it all out—raw, honest, and whole.
Yi‑Jido fell silent for a moment, then stood and embraced him. "My son… I'm grateful you're mine, no matter who you were. You've overcome more than anyone should have to."
Yi‑Ana wiped away tears as she stroked his hair. "We're so proud of you. We're always here for you."
Kaeyan leaned closer, eyes wide. "So you've lived twice, Oppa? That's insane—like a superhero origin story."
Gevran laughed through his tears. "Yeah. So don't worry—I'm here now. With all of you."
That night was a mix of laughter and tears. Relief washed over him like never before, as if a lifelong weight had finally been lifted.