UNSEEN PAIN. minsung

𝟎𝟐. // a new beggining

After Jisung had grown to the age of 16, His mother knew what would be the best for him and his future. The decision to move had not been easy for Tzuyu. Leaving behind the familiarity of their old life, their home, and the memories they had shared as a family was a heartbreaking necessity. Yet, with every box packed and every farewell said, Tzuyu knew deep down that it was the right choice for Jisung's sake.

The new city welcomed them with open arms, its bustling streets and unfamiliar faces offering a blank canvas on which to paint their future. Tzuyu found a small but cozy apartment in a quiet neighborhood. Here, she hoped, they could begin a new journey.

the nearby park with its towering trees and chirping birds, the corner store where they bought their groceries, and the local library where Jisung's eyes widened at the rows of colorful storybooks.

"It's okay to feel scared, Jisungie ," Tzuyu reassured him one evening as they sat on the balcony, watching the sun dip below the horizon. "But we're in this together. We'll make this place our home, just you and me."

Jisung nodded solemnly, his gaze fixed on the flickering lights of the city below. He missed his old friends, the familiar routine of school, and the comfort of their old house. But he also knew that here, in this new beginning, lay the promise of safety and healing.

Days turned into weeks, and slowly but surely, Tzuyu and Jisung began to carve out a routine. Tzuyu found a job at a local clinic, drawing on her nursing experience to help others in need. She poured herself into her work, finding solace in the familiar rhythms of caregiving and the knowledge that she was making a difference.

But amidst the new beginnings, there were moments of quiet reflection for both mother and son. As they were leaning against the fence of the balcony, Jisung suddenly spoke up.

"Mom, why did Jin hurt me?" Jisung's voice trembled with a mix of confusion and sadness.

Tzuyu's heart clenched at the question, the weight of it pressing heavily upon her. She gathered Jisung into her arms, holding him close as tears welled up in her eyes.

"Oh Jisungie ," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "He made some very bad choices. But you are so loved, Jisung. We're safe now, and nothing will ever hurt you again."

And as Jisung nodded, his breathing steady and his hand clutching hers, Tzuyu knew that their journey toward healing was far from over. But they had taken the first courageous step – away from fear and toward a future filled with hope, resilience, and the enduring bond of a mother's love.

!!