Episode 3 peels back the layers of Je-yi's past, illustrating how her father's relentless drive for success meticulously molded her into the individual she has become. His unwavering commitment to nurturing a high-achieving progeny saw him delve into every conceivable practice, from astrology to numerology, leaving noavenue unexplored in his quest for academic prowess from his offspring.
Je-yi, naturally endowed with talent, found herself in the shadow of her academically exceptional older sister. Observing her father's preferential treatment, Je-yi pushed her boundaries to the extreme, immersing herself in studies for six relentless months—to the point of neglecting even the most basic necessities like proper bathroom breaks. Her relentless efforts culminated in her surpassing her sister, finally capturing her father's attention.
Yet, instead of accolades, he instilled in her a haunting fear—comparing her fate to that of Cain and Abel from the Bible, where one sibling is eternally vigilant against the other's downfall. This ominous teaching drove Je-yi to isolate herself from her sister and the world at large.
Flashing forward to the present, Je-yi accompanies Seul-gi to her father's hospital, where she and her trio of friends—Choi Gyeong and Ju Ye-ri—occupy a personalized study haven. Here, Je-yi presents Seul-gi with an extra school uniform, and this time, Seul-gi, touched by her gesture, finally embraces her kindness. The tranquil moment is interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Choi Gyeong and Ju Ye-ri, who indulge in gossip about them. Swiftly, Je-yi shields Seul-gi, ushering her into hiding, protecting her from their harsh whispers.
Moreover, the episode uncovers a pivotal link between Je-yi's father and Seul-gi—he was the surgeon who operated on Seul-gi's father, and the two had a fleeting encounter at the funeral parlor. Meanwhile, Seul-gi's hardened exterior cracks to reveal a pure, poignant desire: the yearning to belong to a family, just like any other child.
The episode concludes on an intriguing note, with Seul-gi tentatively asking Je-yi if she could sit with her again the following day at school, amidst the curious gaze of their fellow students, eagerly awaiting the unfolding drama.
