MAZE : The key to love

~Chapter 04~

As they reached a dense forest, the group, including Jeonkook, Jiya, and the other children, took refuge in a leaf-made hut skillfully crafted by some old people who were camping. As the hut was empty and only had some boxes they adjusted for a night. Resuming their journey the next day, a sudden gunshot rang out behind them, signifying Mr. Malik's sudden trap. “You can run everywhere, but in the end, you have to come to me,” he declared in a heartless manner.

Despite the children's efforts to flee on bicycles, Mr. Malik's sharp aim destroyed their hopes by shooting their tires, causing them to stumble and injure their knees. However, Jiya's quick thinking and action protected Jeonkook, and together they hid behind a huge rock, escaping Mr. Malik's capture . While Mr. Malik was preoccupied with the captured children, he soon realized Jiya and Jeonkook were missing, appointing a strict search by his servants within a tight 24-hour deadline.

Seizing the moment, Jiya and Jeonkook cautiously slipped away from the scene, escaping their enemies. They regretted leaving the children behind them, but they were too small to handle it, they felt sorry for the kids.

As they reached the market by evening, they spotted two shawls hanging from a rope, drying in the sun. They swiftly covered themselves to blend in with the crowd, seeking protection. Amidst the bustling market, a huge crowd caught their attention, drawing them closer.

The overpowering bad smell made it unbearable for them to stay, yet they walked on to see what it was. Inside, Jeon's heart sank as he saw his father's lifeless form, the coldness of death enveloping the environment. Overwhelmed with grief, Jeon fled, with Jiya following behind. Jeon took some solace by a rocky stream, his sadness echoing through the surroundings as he wept, his tears mingling with the flowing water.

Through tear-streaked eyes, he lamented, “I escaped from a life of despair, holding onto the hope of reuniting with my father, only to find him gone, leaving me stranded in a world of uncertainty. I can't even imagine this reality of being orphaned in an early stage of my life . Just yesterday, I was living a happy and wealthy life, and today, I find myself in the middle of the roads, suffering with the harshness of this new existence.”

Upon hearing Jiya's comforting words, Jeon gradually eased his sobs, finding courage in her support. Jiya reassured him, saying, “Chill out, Jeon, I understand your pain, and I won't ever let you return to that dreadful place. You can live anywhere, just not with that insane mali.” Giving Jeon the space he needed to overcome his sorrow, they eventually walked back into the market, aimlessly exploring to pass the time.

During their walk, they met an elderly man, who, found them stained with blood and injured, sensing their problem, inquired about their situation. After sharing their hardships, the man, feeling bad for them by their story, extended an invitation to his hotel. Trusting in the man's kindness, they accepted his offer, hopeful for a better tomorrow.

Jeon, feeling a sense of security at the old man's hotel, observed the care and kindness they received, from new clothes to healthy food and soothing ointments for their wounds. Sensing a moment ripe for conversation, Jeon initiated, “Sir, if you're comfortable, could you share some details about yourself?”

The old man, with a chuckle, responded, “Hehehe, sure, I'm not a kidnapper; I'm from the USA, visiting here. My wife passed away, leaving me alone. I adore children. My name is Andrew Flutterstone. And what about you?” Jiya introduced themselves, “Oh, Mr. Andrew, I'm Jiya, and he's Ji Jeonkook from Canada. You're familiar with our past. But being orphans, we lack much to share.”

Mr. Andrew, with compassion, proposed, “I sense you prefer not to be in an orphanage. If you feel secure here, would you allow me to adopt you? I promise to protect you.” Filled with gratitude and newfound trust in Mr. Andrew, the children joyfully accepted his offer, finding some hope in the promise of safety and care under his wing.