𝖂𝖍𝖎𝖘𝖕𝖊𝖗𝖘 𝕺𝖋 𝕷𝖔𝖛𝖊 (ZhanYi)

Glistering Island.

I couldn't help but ask my grandpa, "Why did you follow him?"

His eyes glazed over with a distant look as memories flooded back. He took a deep breath, and with a hint of nostalgia in his voice, he recounted the story of his youth.

"I fell in love and lost my chance after your grandmother passed away," he said softly. "I don't want you to experience the same feeling of regret. That's why I followed him—I wanted to make sure you never experienced that kind of pain."

"I know the resort owner," he said with a smile. "He's an old friend of mine; you can go there whenever you want. It's just 10 minutes from the house."

My grandpa's words touched me so deeply that I couldn't help but smile. I was so happy to know he cared so much for me. He wanted to make sure I never experienced the same painhe endured in his youth. I started feeling giddy at the thought of visiting the resort anytime I wanted, just 10 minutes from the house.

Welcome to Glistering Island! My grandfather said as we parked his car in the compound.

I looked around and noticed how different the houses here were. Unlike our estate, which resembled a military base with its fences and gates, the houses on Glistering Island had open compounds adorned with beautiful flowers. It was a refreshing sight, and the atmosphere felt inviting.

The absence of fences and gates gave the island a sense of openness and freedom. It was as if the community trusted each other enough to live without barriers. The vibrant colors of the flowers added natural beauty to the surroundings, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance. The absence of rigid structures that typically define residential areas made Glistering Island feel like a place where people could truly connect with nature and each other.

Grandpa graciously carried my bag inside, and I quietly walked behind him, taking in the surroundings. As soon as I entered, I was in awe. The place looked impeccably clean and exuded a cozy atmosphere. The walls were adorned with beautiful pictures of my mom when she was young, posing happily with her parents. It was heartwarming to see these cherished memories preserved and displayed.

This was my first visit. I hardly leave the house thanks to my overprotective mother and grandma.

My grandpa opened a door, allowing me to enter a room I recognized instantly. Without his guidance, I didn't need him to tell me it was my mom's room. It was like she had described it to me before. The room exuded warmth and familiarity with its soft color palette and carefully arranged furniture. The bed was neatly made and adorned with my mom's favorite quilt, while her cherished photographs adorned the walls. The room felt like a sanctuary, a place where my mom's essence was captured and preserved.

My grandpa's phone started ringing, and we both knew who was calling. He quickly answered his phone, his voice full of warmth and love. It was my mom calling to check in with us and see how I was doing. We talked for a few minutes before my grandpa hung up, and I could tell he was happy to hear her voice. He smiled at me, a sign of understanding and reassurance. I knew everything was okay, and he spoilt me like my grandma.

Get some rest; we'll hang out at the resort later. He patted my shoulder and left.