Map of the Soul 7 Saga Book 3 - Home

Home Chapter 9

The roar of JK's motorcycle echoed down the street, signaling his arrival. He kept his helmet on, a mysterious figure until he was safely inside. We quickly locked the door and closed all the blinds, shutting out the world. Only then did JK remove his helmet, his familiar smile greeting us. This secret routine had become our new normal, a way to protect our friendship from curious onlookers. 

Holden giggled with excitement, loving the thrill of our little hide-and-seek game. As I watched JK ruffle Holden's hair, I couldn't help but feel a mix of happiness and nervous anticipation. Holden was a thrill-seeker, just like JK.

Once at our secret outdoor location, a hidden clearing surrounded by tall trees, I felt a sense of excitement and relief. JK had arranged for a discreet black van to pick us up, ensuring no one would recognize us. The driver, a friendly face from his team, gave us a reassuring nod as we climbed in.

As we stepped out into the clearing, the sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a magical atmosphere. JK immediately went into fun mode with Holden, challenging him to a race to the big rock at the edge of the clearing. "Last one there is a rotten egg!" he called, and Holden took off giggling, his laughter echoing through the trees.

"Alright, pirate crew!" JK announced, straightening up and putting on a serious face. "Our first mission is to find the hidden treasure at the top of that hill over there. Are you ready?"

Holden jumped up and down. "Yes! Let's go!" he shouted, running ahead.

I followed closely behind, my heart racing. "Wait, be careful, you two!" I called out, trying to keep my voice calm despite the worry bubbling inside me. "It's a steep hill!"

JK looked back at me with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Ria! I'll keep him safe. Right, Holden?"

"Yeah! JK is the best!" Holden exclaimed, climbing up the hill with determination.

As they reached the top, I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. "Holden, stay where it's safe!" I shouted, my heart pounding as I watched him teeter near the edge.

"Mommy, look! I can see everything!" Holden yelled, waving his arms with glee.

"That's awesome, buddy! But please be careful!" I replied, trying to sound cheerful while my stomach twisted in knots.

JK knelt beside Holden, pointing out landmarks. "See that big tree over there? That's where the treasure is buried. We just have to climb down safely to find it."

I took a deep breath, watching them closely. "Okay, but can we keep it down a little? We don't want anyone to notice us," I reminded them, glancing around nervously.

"Got it, stealth mode activated!" JK said with a playful salute, making Holden giggle again.

"Okay, pirates! Let's find that treasure!" Holden cheered, his energy contagious as they prepared to climb down.

As I watched them descend, I felt both joy and worry. I had to trust JK, but I couldn't shake the feeling that our secret adventure was pushing the limits.

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After a fun evening of bonding, JK helped me get Holden to bed. Soon, Holden was in a deep sleep, his soft breaths filling the room with a comforting rhythm.

As I turned to JK, I noticed he had a serious look on his face, but there was a tint of shyness that I couldn't quite understand. "Hey, can we talk?" he asked, his voice low.

I gazed at him with a furrowed brow, my concern evident. "What is it?" I inquired, feeling a wave of nervousness wash over me.

JK hesitated, stumbling over his words as he struggled to articulate his thoughts. "Well, um, I..."