Orphan

Reunited

Ran’s POV:

It had been a while. Today I was going to start middle school. I’m nervous. What if they are there? I’m still not supposed to let people know about me. But, Moca would still know me, right? I haven’t changed anything. She should still recognize me.

I’m unsure what dad would do if they started hanging out with me again. I have to make friends in school. I can’t just be a loner. That’s not ideal for me. Sure, I don’t know that I’d want to make too many friends. I’m not that social. But, I’d like to make a few friends.

I was going to be leaving for school. I gulped. My hands were sweating a lot. I hope no one else recognizes me. That wouldn’t be good. I don’t think anyone should recognize me, but you never know. I wonder what they would even try to do if they realized who I was. I’ve lost count of how many years it’s been now. I think it would just be a lot of shock to find out I’m not dead.

I left the house and started walking to school. Dad couldn’t drive me because he’s wanted. That’s fun. I can’t go anywhere with him because of that. Not that I mind. I don’t like him that much. I’m glad I don’t have to go anywhere with him.

As I entered the school gate, I saw them. I froze in place, unsure what to do. Do I approach? Do I hide? Should I just pretend not to see them? Only Moca should recognize me, so it’s not that bad. As long as she doesn’t say anything, I should be fine.

But, I want to talk to them. I want to see them again. I nervously glanced around. I wonder if dad sent someone to spy on me. I wouldn’t put it past him to do that. He cares a lot about not letting anyone know about me.

I don’t care. I’m done with him and hiding. I’m showing myself to them whether or not he likes it. These are my friends. He can’t stop me. Well, he can… but I don’t care. He can do whatever he wants. I’m not going to bow to his demands. I’m sick of it.

I took a deep breath and walked over to them. They didn’t care to look at me. Except when Moca saw me. Her eyes widened. I nervously smiled at her. She smiled back and ran over to me. The others watched her in confusion. They don't recognize me. Of course not.

“Who’s this, Moca?” Himari asked.

Moca looked at me. I guess I'm the one who has to explain it. I don’t care if they know. I’d like for them to know. It’ll definitely be a relief to them all to know that I’m okay. I don't care anymore what dad says to do. He doesn't get it. He doesn't understand how much I need them.

“I… i-it’s me… Ran.” I nervously mumbled.

It seemed like time was frozen. They were all just staring at me. Can I really blame them, though? They thought I was dead for so long. To know I'm not must be shocking.

"R-Ran!" Tomoe was the first to move.

She ran up to me and hugged me. It was very tight. I didn't want to say anything. She seems really happy. I don't want to ruin that.

"You're okay… I can't believe it…" Tomoe whispered. She started crying.

"Yeah, I'm fine." I hugged her back.

"What happened to you?" Tomoe asked.

"Um… my parents found me…" I wasn't sure how to talk about it.

"Why'd they take you and run?" Himari questioned.

"Cause they're criminals." I said, "Dad is wanted for a lot of stuff. Mom was too, but she died."

"Why are you staying there?"

"Because I can't leave. He has a lot of power. I don't doubt he could easily find me again." I sighed.