Inferno Hearts | Xu Minghao

5. Hope

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As the morning light casts a gentle warmth, a soft breeze dances through the open penthouse windows. Outside, the birds serenade the day, celebrating the delightful weather with their melodious songs. The once bustling penthouse, alive with animated conversations just a few hours ago, now basks in tranquil silence. After a drinking night the members found solace in sharing their thoughts and feelings, calming the once agitated atmosphere.

While slumber claimed everyone else in the embrace of dreams, there was one person who found no refuge in sleep. Fear, like an unwelcome guest, gripped her heart, keeping her wide awake. The weight of that fear manifested clearly on her face, as the radiance it once held had faded. Her eyes, usually vibrant with life, now reflected the burden of anxious thoughts that refused to relent.

Nabi felt hungry, thirsty, tired, and in pain. But above all, fear consumed her, overshadowing everything else.

Despite the physical challenges she faced, terror held the power to eclipse them all. It was a haunting presence that eclipsed hope, dimmed the light of optimism, and left her feeling vulnerable and exposed in the face of the unknown.

In the dimness of the room, Nabi's eyes darted frantically, seeking an escape route. However, her hope dwindled as she realized the only objects remaining were the bed she sat upon and the broken chair, a reminder of Minghao's outburst from a few hours earlier.

Exhausted, Nabi closed her eyes, seeking respite from her struggles. A faint sound from upstairs disrupted the silence, signaling that someone was about to go to the basement, the simple sound sent a chill down her spine, knowing that someone was about to join her in the dark and cold room.

As the door creaked open slightly, Nabi caught a glimpse of a tall figure standing in the doorway. The dim light from outside the room cast shadows that obscured the man's features, leaving her unable to discern his identity. With measured steps, he approached her, shrouded in the shadows, making her heart race with uncertainty and fear.

As her eyes gradually adjusted to the light escaping from the now open door, the man's features became clearer. To her surprise and relief, he was holding a tray in his hands. On the tray, a sandwich and a glass of water were neatly arranged, offering a glimmer of comfort amidst the darkness and fear.

With her eyes now adjusting to the lighting, Nabi could discern the man's features more distinctly. He stood tall and well-built, his facial features defined by a pointed nose and a perfect jawline. Despite the earlier apprehension, his smile caught her off guard, radiating a genuine warmth that reassured her.

Feeling a mix of surprise and curiosity, Nabi couldn't help but wonder about the intentions behind this unexpected visitor. The contrast between his imposing presence and the kind gesture of bringing food and water left her both perplexed and intrigued.

"Hey, take this," says the man, extending the tray towards Nabi with a gentle gesture.

"I'm sure you haven't eaten anything in a while," the man says with a compassionate tone, urging Nabi to accept the food and quench her hunger.

Nabi's shock lingered, torn between caution and gratitude for the unexpected gesture. Sensing her apprehension, the man spoke reassuringly, "Don't be scared. I didn't put anything in the sandwich or water. I just want to make sure you don't starve." His words carried sincerity, attempting to bridge the gap of uncertainty between them.

She contemplated whether to trust this stranger, trying to assess the authenticity of his intentions. The tension in the room eased slightly, and Nabi found herself at a crossroads, deciding whether to take a leap of faith or remain cautious in the presence of the enigmatic man before her.