Min's heart bore secrets too heavy to share, a burden that weighed her down like an anchor in a stormy sea. She knew why this happened to her, but the truth remained locked within her, hidden away from prying eyes and judgmental whispers.
Lin, her closest friend, sensed Min's turmoil. His silence spoke volumes, a quiet understanding that transcended mere words. Min broke the stillness, her voice trembling like fragile petals in the wind.
"Lin," she began, "I know what you're thinking."
His eyes met hers, searching for answers. How and why? How did this happen? Who was responsible?
"Hmm," Lin murmured, "my mom did all this. She hates me so much that she wants to kill me."
"Your mom?" Lin's disbelief hung in the air.
"Yes," Min confirmed. "But she's not my real mother. My mother died ten years ago. Then my father remarried."
"Why would she want to kill you?" Lin's voice held a mix of shock and concern.
"Because," Min whispered, "after my death, my real mother's property will be in her name."
Lin's mind raced, trying to comprehend the twisted web of family dynamics. "But thanks to you, I'm still alive," Min continued. "I treat her like a real mother, hoping that one day she'll love me too. Her son, my half-brother, hates me."
Min's eyes darkened. "She burns my poetry books. I used to cry, but now I keep a secret copy hidden away."
"And your father?" Lin asked.
Min scoffed. "He loves his wife more than me."
Lin's heart ached for his friend. "Why do you tolerate all this? You can stay with me. Or I have a friend, Uki; she'll take care of you."
Min hesitated. "Nah, thanks for the offer."
"But why live where no one loves you?" Lin pressed.
"They don't love me," Min replied, "but I love them all."
Lin's resolve hardened. "You won't go back there. I won't allow it."
Min shook her head. "It's complicated."
Lin leaned in. "Listen, after this, whatever I say, just hear me out."
Min nodded, and Lin whispered, "You'll call me when you reach home. I'll pick you up. It might sound strange, but I have to do this."
Min wondered about Lin's intentions. No one will tell Min what I am thinking. But she smiled. "Okay."
Later, at the hospital, the doctor advised Min to take a week's bed rest. Lin, ever protective, interjected, "Give her at least two weeks."
Min chuckled. "Lin, shhhhh."
And as Lin left, Min thought, I didn't know anyone would care for me. Thanks, Lin. But she kept her thoughts hidden, knowing that some secrets were best left unspoken.