I stared at the food in my bowl. After a long silence, I finally spoke.
"Dad. Mom. I've decided to go abroad to study."
The air seemed to freeze.
Mom's hand paused mid-reach. Dad's brow furrowed slightly.
They exchanged a glance, and something unspoken passed between them.
"You're sure?" Dad's voice was steady. No questioning. No attempt to talk me out of it.
"Yeah. I'm sure." I nodded, my voice firm.
Mom let out a quiet sigh and reached over to pat my shoulder. "Back then, you gave up your chance to study overseas for Cheryl. If this is what you've decided now, we're behind you."
A flicker of heartache crossed her eyes, but beneath it was something closer to relief.
Dad lifted his tea, took a slow sip, and said evenly, "Getting out might do you good. A change of scenery helps you see things more clearly."
"As for the arranged engagement your grandfather set up, I'll explain things to the Delgados."
I lowered my head. A sour ache bloomed in my chest.
When I'd given up studying abroad to start the company with Cheryl, my parents hadn't said a word against it. But I knew they'd carried that regret quietly all these years.