Unexpected - The Enigma.

Chapter- 4

★Anaya's pov:-

Life's been a tough cookie for me, and I'm not one to complain. I know everyone's got their own struggles, hidden or not. But honestly, some days I just can't help but throw my hands up and ask: Why does bad luck have a permanent address at my doorstep?!

I thought I'd finally caught a break after teaching those pesky punks a lesson. "Ah," I thought, "now I can enjoy some peace and quiet." But nope! The universe had other plans. Instead of granting me some well-deserved tranquility, it decided to blow me off – literally!

"Ma... I can explain everything..." I trailed off, hoping against hope that Mother Shali would finally understand.

"South Korea? How do you plan to explain this to me? And why there, of all places?" she asked, her voice laced with concern, holding up my university scholarship papers. I had intended to break the news to her myself, but it seemed she had discovered the papers first.

"There are countless universities offering scholarships; why South Korea? It's so far away, and how can I possibly let you go alone, Anaya? I don't think it's a good idea," she said, her worry palpable.

"Ma, I know you're concerned about me, and I get it. This will be my first time traveling alone, and Korea, at that. But, Ma, I've always dreamed of attending that university. I have a good feeling about this opportunity, and I've already secured the scholarship, so please don't worry."

I'm grateful for Mother Shali's unwavering love and presence in my life. Growing up in the orphanage, I often felt like an outcast. While other children were adopted by new families, I remained untouched, a constant observer. I was around 5 or 6 years old then, and my introverted nature, fueled by unknown forces, made me retreat into my own shell. I'd sit alone, lost in thought, wondering why I was different. Was it the reason my biological parents abandoned me? Why nobody wanted me?

As I grew older, I learned to suppress those feelings of isolation and despair. Mother Shali played a pivotal role in my healing, encouraging me to express myself through art. She urged me to paint and draw, channeling my emotions onto the canvas. Her guidance helped me gradually shed the weight of loneliness and depression.

"South Korea," I thought, "why does it feel so right?" My teacher first mentioned it, and somehow, it stuck. With numerous university options, I chose xxx University in Seoul. It just felt meant to be – and then I received the scholarship.

"Anaya, sweetie, are you really sure about this?" Mother Shali asked, holding my hands and searching my eyes for any signs of hesitation.

"I'm super sure, Ma," I replied, smiling to reassure her.

She smiled back, enveloping me in a warm hug that filled my heart. She always knew exactly what I needed.

"Okay, my sweet girl, I'm proud you followed your heart," she said. "But promise me you'll be careful, take care of yourself, and eat plenty of healthy food."

I smiled at her words. "Hmm, I promise."

That was surprisingly easy. I had expected resistance, but instead, I received her unwavering support.

"Following my heart, that's exactly what I'm doing," I thought, hoping everything would turn out well.

"So, when are you leaving?" Mother Shali asked, releasing me from her tight hug.

"25th. My tickets are already booked," I replied.

Her expression changed in an instant. "What?! We only have a week left! When were you planning to tell me? After you'd taken off?" She scolded, pinching my left ear.