Summary

Back in the present with Namin, SNU is temporarily shut down after recent student demonstrations turned violent. Namin worries that she will fall behind on her studies, but is happily distracted by Sunam and the oncoming Spring. The two agree to meet at a tearoom oft frequented by young couples for its views of the blossoming cherry trees. Sunam brings yellow tulips for Namin, who suggests the trees are too beautiful to sit inside. She eases Sunam's look of concern by assuring him a walk still constitutes a date. Namin feels happy to have Sunam and feel so connected to him. She begins to tell him about Hyun. Sunam listens without interruption. “Telling Sunam about Hyun, [Namin] shed the protective layer that hardened her against outside opinions. Now she was totally vulnerable” (184).

Namin asks Sunam if she has said too much. Sunam assures...