The days turned into weeks, and the weeks began to blur into a comforting routine for Ethan. As he spent his time recovering, he could feel his strength returning. The once frail boy who had been on the verge of breaking was now starting to take on a healthier appearance. His cheeks filled out, and the bruises and cuts that marred his skin had begun to heal under the diligent care of the medical team and the warmth of the maids.
Ethan often found himself in the common areas, laughing with the maids as they teased him about his cooking attempts or when they played small pranks on one another. It felt good to laugh. It felt good to smile. He still carried the weight of his past with him, but the kindness surrounding him began to lighten that burden.
One sunny afternoon, as he sat on a comfortable couch with a book in hand, the door swung open. Ethan looked up, and his breath caught in his throat. It was Rowan Casey.
Rowan stepped inside, his tall frame exuding authority tempered with warmth. Ethan’s heart raced, a mix of excitement and nerves flooding him. It had been nearly a month since he’d been rescued, and though he had asked the maids about Rowan, he hadn’t seen him until now.
“Hey there, Ethan!” Rowan greeted, a genuine smile spreading across his face. “How are you doing?”
Ethan’s mouth went dry. He struggled to find his words, his usual shyness creeping in. “I… I’m doing good,” he stuttered, his voice barely above a whisper. “I… I love everything here.”
Rowan’s eyes twinkled with kindness as he took a seat across from Ethan. “I’m glad to hear that. You deserve to feel safe and happy.” He leaned forward slightly, his expression sincere. “Is there anything you need? Anything I can do for you?”
Ethan thought about it, the gratitude swelling in his chest. “I—I just want to help… If there’s anything I can do in return…” He trailed off, unsure of how to articulate his thoughts.
Rowan chuckled softly, his demeanor warm and approachable. “You’ve already done so much just by being here, Ethan. But there is something I’d like to talk to you about.” He paused, gauging Ethan’s reaction. “You see, I run a healthcare company that provides the best quality care for patients. It’s something I’m very proud of. But behind closed doors, I also lead an organization called The Justice Alliance.”
Ethan’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Justice Alliance?” he repeated, the name sounding both intriguing and daunting.
Rowan nodded, his expression serious. “Yes. It’s an organization that takes down the devils in our country—those who abuse and kill innocent people. Everyone in the Alliance has faced their own struggles, just like you. We’re all here to fight back against the injustice that we once suffered.”
Ethan felt a stirring in his heart. “But… I don’t know how to fight. How can I help others when I couldn’t even stop my own abusers?” His voice trembled slightly, revealing the deep-seated doubts that lingered within him.
Rowan’s expression softened, and he leaned back in his chair. “I understand how you feel, Ethan. It’s a common fear. But that’s why we train. We teach everyone in the Alliance how to defend themselves and how to help others who are suffering. All we need is your willingness to join us.”
Ethan’s mind raced. The idea of joining The Justice Alliance was both exhilarating and terrifying. Could he really become someone who helped others, who fought against the very darkness that had haunted him for so long? The thought of standing up for those who couldn’t stand up for themselves tugged at something deep within him.
“Will you train me?” Ethan asked, his voice steadier now, the flicker of determination shining through his shyness.
Rowan smiled widely, the warmth radiating from him. “Of course! All you have to do is agree, and we’ll get started. You’re not alone in this, Ethan. We’re a family here, and we’ll support you every step of the way.”
With newfound courage blossoming in his chest, Ethan nodded. “Okay. I want to help.”
“Welcome to The Justice Alliance, Ethan,” Rowan said, extending his hand toward him. “I promise you, you won’t regret this decision.”
Ethan grasped Rowan’s hand, a surge of hope washing over him. In that moment, he felt like he was finally stepping into the light after years of being trapped in darkness. He wasn’t just a victim anymore—he was part of something bigger, something that could change lives.
