This was one of the only dramas that had such a strong impression on me that I had a "drama hangover" - I couldn't watch anything after I finished this one for a while and thus, decided to watch it twice. I don't even usually write reviews but was compelled to write this one because I was so affected by this show.

First of all, let's get this out of the way. The last episode was just okay. But it did not ruin my enjoyment of the whole series. I could see the argument that it would be a better ending if the drama stopped at episode 15 @ 50 minutes. But I also could see why the writers/producers wanted to wrap it up the way they did.

The story's main themes are yearning and sacrifice. Yearning for things you can't have: more time, better health, or a happy ending. And accepting the sacrifices you have to make to protect something dear to you. This story is so good because, due to the circumstances, your heart breaks for the characters who are faced with these bleak outcomes. The characters have to make impossible decisions where they can't have all of the things they want the most or avoid the things they fear the most at the same time. Each choice has consequences.

After getting to know the characters' hopes and fears, you get invested and start earnestly rooting for them to find a way to an impossible happy ending. What I think the drama does so well is exploring the fear and sadness of leaving everyone you love behind and never seeing them again. And how hard it is to accept... The characters struggle with the loss in such a realistic and beautiful way.

I'll say I got emotional multiple times when watching this drama. Especially later on in the season. Also, the OST for this drama was so good. Ailee's song has been stuck in my head. And Gummy 's voice really pulls at your heartstrings.