Yohan was wounded, wanted by the police headquarters. He could run, but no matter where he went, the Angel would never leave him alone.
On the highway, he saw a man asking for a lift. Yohan hesitated—trust was dangerous—but in the end, he slowed down and let him in.
Yohan had already lost everything—his money, his house, but most importantly, his reputation and freedom. And he knew the only way to be free from the Angel was to kill him.
The man he had picked up soon noticed his wounds and offered help. Yohan was reluctant but eventually allowed it. To his surprise, the man was skilled, his hands steady as he treated him.
Yohan asked calmly, "Are you a doctor of some kind?"
The man laughed. "No, I am just a gardener."
Yohan managed a small smile. "What's your name, mister?"
The man smiled back. "Odin. Odin Moss. And what's yours, kind sir?"
"Yohan," he replied. "By the way, where are you heading?"
Odin leaned back. "Just outside the city. A small village. Outsiders usually aren't welcome, but me… I'm special."
Yohan chuckled. "So, Mister Special, do you mind if I tag along?"
Odin grinned cheerfully. "It's your car, mister. Who am I to stop you?"
They traveled for half an hour before reaching the village. At first, the people refused to let Yohan in. But when they saw Odin, their expressions softened, and they welcomed him gladly.
Odin was clearly respected and loved there. He often came to treat wounds, teach the people, and help their crops grow. He was peaceful—too peaceful. Almost perfect.
Yohan decided to stay for a week. The village was calm, its people kind, but in the back of his mind, he feared for their safety. He knew if he stayed too long, the Angel would come for them just to reach him. For now, though, he allowed himself to feel safe.
The villagers gave him food and a place to stay. That day, for the first time in a long while, Yohan felt like he mattered. Like he wasn't just a hollow shell.
Watching Odin play with the children, and seeing the elders talk happily among themselves, Yohan felt something he hadn't in years.
Peace.
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