Why did Peak stop near the summit?

• A. To allow Sun-jo to be the youngest to reach the summit on May 30.
• B. To take a final photograph.
• C. To rest before the final stretch.
• D. To wait for a rescue.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is understanding how a climber’s goals shape every move on a dangerous ascent. Peak stops near the summit because he wants to help Sun-jo achieve a specific goal: to become the youngest person to reach the summit on a designated date, May 30. This moment shows Peak acting out of loyalty and a shared plan, prioritizing Sun-jo’s dream and the timing that makes it possible. It isn’t about taking a final photograph or about resting for its own sake, and there’s no reason given for waiting for a rescue at that point. The date and the promise to support Sun-jo drive the pause, illustrating how personal motives and relationships influence critical decisions in high-stakes situations.