Character Growth, Beautiful Ending (23 August 21)

This is my favourite part of the eps actually.

The sequence is so beautifully matched to their growth story. Both have their own traumas, and once again, I'm in awe with how the writer and the director gave closure for this even in the smallest details.

NB reaching out for his hand first, and then honestly expressing her request for him, "So don't go anywhere and stay by my side", is actually what JE needs all this time. This means the world to him. 

JE has this fear of abandonment (maybe bcs of his parents), & this is also why he used to think that it's no use to be in a relationship, bcs putting a name on it doesn't literally guarantee anything but pain.

That's why NB's first move is very impactful for him.

He's incredibly touched. For him, it means that finally, for someone, his presence is needed. Much much needed. He won't be abandoned. He can finally let go of his trauma. Realising what NB's just done, his eyes getting teary immediately (must say that Kang is stunning for this).

After he's done registering what has just happened, he finally can smile. A sincere, relieved smile. Because he's now got that assurance, he can finally be true to himself. He no longer wants to hide. All the unsaid feelings coming at once that he doesn't even know what to say first.

And now it's NB's turn to get what she's been wanting all this time.

Because of her family background, and also her ex issues, she has this longing to be loved, openly and sincerely. Appreciated and prioritised. She wants that evident proof that she's actually loved.

"Do you like me that much?" is actually her teasing him. Teasing with intention, to be exact. She still wants that statement from him.

And JE understands the hint. Because of all things that he wants to say to her (that making him smile), that one statement actually is long overdue :")

"Yes. I like you so much."

NB, who's been longing for that exact statement all this time, to affirm that it's not only her, finally gets those words from JE.

Sincere words, softly, with so much conviction in it.

Touched is an understatement to describe what she felt.

And now that she's got that assurance, that JE, the guy who's been on her mind for months, likes her that much, she can finally be ready for the next step. 

Both of them finally, at last, got what they've been wanting all along.

They both put an end to each other's issues.

Still not perfect, definitely, but for that very moment, they know they can try, together.

fictionaltrash