DEVIANT HEARTS| HEESEUNG

4-Studying Him In black

chapter 4

"God, sometimes I wonder if you're my sister," Jin mused, his eyes fixed on the facility in front of them, a massive structure that seemed to hold countless stories within its walls, before glancing back at Athena. Her presence beside him, embarking on this unique journey, filled him with a mix of emotions — concern, curiosity, and a deep sense of pride in her determination.

"Why?" Athena asked inquisitively, her eyes mirroring the intrigue and wonder that danced in Jin's gaze. There was an unspoken bond between them, an understanding that extended beyond mere words, forged through years of shared experiences and family ties.

"Out of all the places you could have chosen, you've decided to do your work practice in a state prison for men?" Jin wondered aloud, his curious brown eyes meeting Athena's in the rearview mirror. The sight of her, dressed in professional attire yet emanating a subtle aura of strength and compassion, was both heartwarming and slightly nerve-wracking for him.

"Yes," she breathed out, her voice carrying a mixture of determination and a touch of vulnerability. Her gaze remained fixed on the passing scenery outside the window, the picturesque landscape providing a stark contrast to the imposing correctional facility they were approaching. They had entered a serene and untouched piece of land, and Athena couldn't help but find a strange sense of calm amidst the pending storm of emotions inside her. "I have indeed chosen to do it there, and honestly, I'm just intrigued by the case I'm working on."

"Actually," Jin interrupted as he made a left turn, momentarily breaking the eye contact with Athena to focus on the road ahead. "You've always been the genius of the family and the crazy one." His words were tinged with a mixture of admiration and concern, for he knew that Athena's ambitious spirit often led her into uncharted territories.

"Crazy?" Athena pondered the question more to herself than anyone else, taking a few moments to absorb her surroundings. The tall fences and the formidable structure of the prison loomed large in her mind, raising questions about the path she had chosen. But there was an unshakable conviction within her, a belief that she could make a difference in the lives of those incarcerated souls. "But are you really okay with me working with prisoners here?"

"I'm actually only assigned to work with one specific prisoner, but I might ask to provide therapy to others as well. I don't want to get bored," Athena replied, her eyes alight with a spark of enthusiasm. Her desire to help others, even those who society had often cast aside, was a driving force behind her decision to pursue this challenging field. Before Jin could respond, she turned the question back to him, curious about his thoughts on the matter. "What do you think about second chances, bro?"

Jin remained silent for a moment, his friendly features displaying a faint smile as his eyes crinkled at the corners. His mind wandered back to the many instances in their lives where they had seen both the best and worst of humanity. It was these experiences that had shaped his perspective on second chances. "What do you think?" he responded, opting to hear her insight first.

"I actually hate the idea of not granting people second chances," Athena began passionately, her voice tinged with empathy and conviction. "I mean, someone could spend a few years in jail and come out as a better, greater person, but thanks to our society, they often don't get the opportunity to truly transform their lives. They get trapped in the same cycles they vowed to break while in prison. The prejudice and the lack of opportunities push them back onto the wrong path," she rambled on, her gaze shifting towards the gray building surrounded by imposing fences.

"I got your point," Jin interrupted, his voice filled with unwavering support and understanding. He recognized the fire burning within Athena, and the fierce determination to challenge the status quo and make a positive impact. As Jin nodded, assuring her that she could always count on him for support, he couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and concern for his sister, embarking on this new chapter of her life.