I am Kim Junho, a young orphan whose life revolves around the towering walls of the orphanage. This is where I eat, take a bath, and sleep. Even though it looks like
I'm isolated here, I don't hate it at all because Sister Ana, our caring guardian, looks after all of us and provides us with our basic needs and proper education.
Within these walls, I formed a lot of friendships; I have three best friends: Arthur, Astra, and Seoul. They were the ones who welcomed me into this orphanage with open arms, and we became inseparable.
AS WE SAT ON THE TABLE.
"Hey, did you guys have a great sleep, and by the way, where's Seoul?" Arthur asked, flashing a bright smile at us.
I replied while feeling worried. He mentioned he didn't sleep well last night, so he's still resting. But I had a good night's sleep! How about you Astra?
Astra chimed in, a hint of annoyance in her voice, "I had a good sleep too, but some of the other girls were so noisy; they were super annoying.
Chill, HAHA! It's even worse in Arthur and my room. There's snoring in every corner, and it stinks!
RUMBLE, RUMBLE...
Suddenly, Sister Ana popped out behind us. "I guess you need to eat now before your chattering tummy bursts open and eats all of us here , she said, bursting into laughter.
"We really need to eat, HAHA," we all agreed, holding our tummies
As the taste of our delicious meal lingered, we, the kids, decided to head over to the playground for some fun. Among us, Arthur and I chose the monkey bars for a quick workout, while Astra was busy showcasing her kicks in the corner.
Suddenly, Sister Ana noticed our separate activities and approached us with a gentle smile. "Why not join the other kids and play over there?" she suggested kindly.
With determination burning in our hearts, we turned to her, eager to explain. "No need, Sister. We want to become strong, so we can protect all of you in case any bad guys show up," we declared in unison.
Her eyes softened, touched by our sincerity, and Sister Ana chuckled warmly. "Do your best, my little defenders. May your strength shield the weak."
Grinning widely, we assured her that we would give it our all. Sister Ana then inquired about Seoul, who seemed absent at the moment. "Where's Seoul? Is he still resting?" she asked, concern creasing her brow.
Arthur was quick to reassure her, "Don't worry, Sister. Seoul is having breakfast right now. He said he'd join us after he's done.
That night, while making my way to the bathroom, I caught a glimpse of Seoul sneaking into the corridor. As I approached, curiosity got the better of me, and I inquired, "Seoul, what are you doing here?"
In a hushed tone, he responded, "SHHHH! Sister Ana and the other caretaker are gossiping about something," his eyes filled with curiosity.
Intrigued, I decided to eavesdrop as well. I couldn't resist the urge to know what they were discussing.
To my surprise and dismay, I overheard Sister Ana speaking about my own painful past. The words cut deep as she revealed that my parents had abandoned me in front of the orphanage on a rainy night when I was just a helpless baby, covered in burns, cuts, and bruises.
The weight of her words struck me hard, and an overwhelming wave of hatred surged within me. Until that moment, I believed that they have a great reason to leave me here, but the reality was far worse. To be left so heartlessly, subjected to abuse as a vulnerable newborn, shattered my understanding of love and family.
As the truth unfold before me, I found myself consumed by anger and betrayal. The thought of ever forgiving my own parents seemed impossible, and darker thoughts of vengeance even crossed my mind if they were ever to return for me.
As I lay on my bed, lost in a whirlwind of emotions, Seoul, approached with concern in his eyes. "Are you okay, Junho?" he asked softly, his voice filled with empathy.
Forcing a smile, I replied, "Yeah, I'm fine. It's getting late; we should try to get some sleep before Sister Ana scolds us again.
"But deep down, my heart weighed heavy with sadness, and I struggled to find solace. The events of the day left me feeling numb, unable to express my feelings through tears or even a genuine smile. It was as if I had become detached from my own emotions, lost in a void that offered neither comfort nor release. "Why? Why? Why?" I repeated the question over and over in my head, unable to comprehend the reasons behind Sister Ana's silence about my past. The blank expression on my face masked the turmoil within, but deep down, a potent seed of hatred began to take root in my heart not only to my parents but also to Sister.
As i fall asleep , a sudden noise jolted me awake.
What!!!!! the orphanage is on fire?