“I realize that and I will humbly step aside should the board consider that the best course of action. However, I think it is obvious why I have been devoted to single mothers, the issues of adoption, and the promotion of women’s rights. I have been supporting Hara financially for some time. While I may not have been physically present, from the moment I’ve been able to I have done my duty toward my daughter.”

“And what does Hara Wilson say?” questions the older woman. All eyes swing toward me like a bright spotlight. The desire to shrink back behind my mother—either one of them—is strong.

After two deep gulps that do nothing to settle my nerves, I step forward.

“Hello. Thank you for having me.” My voice is quaking. I’m not a good public speaker. What was the joke the famous comedian once made? That you’d rather be in the coffin than giving the eulogy? I’ve never felt so seen by a joke. I would give anything right now to be in a pine box in the center of the room rather than standing here in front of a bunch of strangers who are twice my age and are looking at me as if I stole money from their pockets.

“I am Choi Hara, daughter of Choi Wansu, and sister to Choi Yujun.” I don’t look in Yujun’s direction as I recite this little speech. “I am grateful for the choices Eomoni has made for me. I have lived a very good life in America with my adoptive mother, Ellen. Eomoni sent us money and paid for my college education and my apartment. I am grateful for all the opportunities she gave to me. She should be praised”—I blow out a deep breath—“and not vilified.” I’m not sure if there’s a direct translation, but everyone seems to understand. “If I were able to vote, I would keep Choi Wansu as sajang.”

“What about the rumors about your relationship with Choi Yujun-ssi?” This comes from a male wearing a suit that looks to be one size too tight.

Yujun opens his mouth but stops when I hold up my hand. “I love him like the brother I don’t have.”

The man grows disappointed. It wasn’t the answer he wanted. Before he can ask another question, Wansu jumps in and says something in Korean. It must be directed toward Yujun, because he stands and bows. “I am in agreement with Hara-ssi.”

Wansu wants him to say something more, but he’s done. I finally meet his gaze and I’m surprised to see determination rather than anger. A spark kindles inside me. This is not the look of someone who’s giving something up, but of someone who is fighting for something. What does it mean? I curse myself for not talking to him before. Have I made the wrong decision? Bomi and Wansu and Ellen all think this is the right course, but is there a way out I haven’t considered?

“What position will you be giving your daughter?” the man asks.