Gary Evans.
Before I could even process it, my phone rang. It was him.
"I'm coming to pick you up," he said. "Wait for me at your school gate."
My heart leapt. Without thinking, I spun around and ran.
When I reached the gate, I saw him standing under a cherry blossom tree — tall, calm, just as I imagined.
It was really him.
I couldn't hold back. I ran into his arms and hugged him tightly, tears spilling down my cheeks. For the first time in years, I felt safe — warm. He gently patted my head, whispering soothing words to calm me down.
We got into his car and drove off on a small road trip. My parents were, as usual, out of town.
For the first time in my life, I felt free. I was finally living.
He said softly,
"I always had a feeling you weren't safe… that you were being neglected. I came here partly for my father's East Asian branch — its headquarters are in Japan — and also for better studies and better gameplay. The university clubs here are excellent. After graduation, I plan to join an SV team. But right now… how are you? You're hiding the scars under makeup, aren't you? Where's your home? I'll help you fix your injuries."
For a moment, I felt like I was floating into space, the years of pain and suffering snapping all at once, like a frayed rope finally giving way. My chest tightened, and before I knew it, I gave him directions to my house.
We went inside. He glanced around the quiet, empty rooms and asked where my parents were. I only shook my head and whispered,
"Follow me."
In my room, I locked the door and drew the blinds shut.