Cote: Elite in Action

Kayden - Part 5

The time passed in the park as Kayden observed his surroundings. He had been interacting with some people, mostly adults, as he found it easier to start a conversation with them than with someone his own age. Additionally, adults were usually more approachable and willing to chat. However, this time he decided to approach a couple who were fondly watching what appeared to be their daughter, who was happily playing with other children.

With complete naturalness, Kayden sat on the wide bench next to the couple, maintaining a calm and polite expression.

—Oh, wow! What a cute child! What's your name, darling? —asked the woman with a warm smile, admiring his appearance.

—Hello, my name is Kayden Osawa —he replied courteously, slightly bowing his head.

—Kayden? That doesn't sound like a Japanese name, unlike your last name —the woman commented, intrigued.

Kayden nodded calmly.

—My mother was Swiss —he explained—. She's the one who gave me the name.

The woman showed a surprised expression upon hearing the past tense in his response.

—Was...? Don't tell me that...

Kayden gave him a calm smile, trying to ease the discomfort in the atmosphere.

—Yes, my mother passed away many years ago —he confirmed—. But don't worry, I'm fine. It's been a long time, so it doesn't affect me.

The woman nodded gently, still with an empathetic expression on her face. The man, who had remained silent until that moment, gave Kayden a peaceful smile.

—It must have been tough growing up without her —he said kindly—. But you seem like a strong kid.

Kayden tilted his head slightly, reflecting for a moment.

—I think it depends on how you look at it —he responded with an unusual maturity for his age—. Sometimes I feel sad when I miss her, but I know she wouldn't want me to stay that way. She always said I should smile, even if things were hard. So... that's what I try to do.

The woman exchanged a surprised look with her husband.

—You're very mature for your age —the man commented, looking at him with a mix of curiosity and admiration—. Most kids don't think like that.

Kayden gave a slight, relaxed smile.

—I guess I learned it from my mom —he said naturally—. She always told me that sadness is part of life, but staying trapped in it is a choice. It's better to accept what can't be changed and move on.

The woman looked at him with tenderness, wondering how a child so young could speak with such serenity.

—It seems like you have a very wise perspective —she said, impressed—. Is your father like that too?

Kayden looked ahead, observing the children playing in the park. His gaze remained calm, though his thoughts were much deeper than his age suggested.

—My dad... doesn't work in the traditional sense —he responded calmly—. His main focus has always been to ensure I can reach my full potential.

The woman frowned, intrigued by his response.

—Ensure you reach your full potential? How does he do that?

Kayden didn't seem to think about it too much.

—He's always researching. He analyzes how he can improve me, how to maximize my abilities. It's not that he pressures me to be perfect, but he believes that knowledge and preparation are essential to face any challenge in the future. He's always looking for ways to give me the best education and the best opportunities.