Jin Mo walked through the lush garden, the faint sound of his footsteps blending with the gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze. The air was crisp, and the bright sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The garden felt like a sanctuary, a peaceful escape from the weight of the world.
As he approached the entrance, he spotted the guards near the gates. Their watchful eyes tracked his every movement, yet they were mere shadows in the presence of the garden's tranquility. His gaze drifted beyond them to the heart of the garden—there, nestled between vibrant flowers, was a small, serene lake.
The wooden bridge stretching across the lake captivated his attention. It was a masterpiece, every detail exuding the craftsmanship of a skilled artisan. Jin Mo ran his fingers lightly along the smooth, polished wood as he walked across, marveling at its elegance. The bridge swayed gently with the breeze, and beneath him, ducks paddled lazily in the crystal-clear water while vibrant goldfish glided beneath the surface.
As he reached the other side, his eyes found her—his mother. She sat by a small table, sipping tea and gazing out at the peaceful scene, the delicate porcelain cup held gracefully in her hands. The table, made from the finest crystal and marble, was small—just enough for three or four people—but its elegance was undeniable, a luxury only the highest nobles could afford.
"Mom?" Jin Mo called gently, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and excitement.
His mother turned toward him with a soft, welcoming smile. The weight of his worries seemed to lighten under the warmth of her gaze. "Yes, Jin Mo. Come, sit down," she gestured to the empty seat beside her, "Kyra, pour some tea for the young master."
Kyra, ever diligent and composed, quickly filled a porcelain cup with the fragrant tea. As Jin Mo took the cup from her, he felt the warmth seep into his hands, and when he sipped, he was immediately struck by its exquisite flavor. The tea was a delicate blend of earthy and floral notes, soothing his senses in a way that felt both comforting and invigorating. It was a simple pleasure, but one that felt deeply grounding.
His mother smiled as she set her cup down. "Jin Mo," she began, her tone shifting to something more serious, "tomorrow your father will be coming home after five years. I know you're excited to see him, but there's something important I must tell you before you meet him."
Jin Mo's heart skipped a beat. He'd been eager for this reunion for so long, but his mother's solemn tone made his stomach tighten with anxiety. "What is it, Mom?" he asked, his voice tinged with nervous anticipation.
His mother looked down for a moment, as though gathering her thoughts. When she met his eyes again, her gaze was soft, filled with both sadness and concern. "Your father... he may not recognize you the way I do. He values strength above all else. He sees only power and ignores those he deems weak."
Jin Mo's eyes widened in surprise and confusion. "Why?" he whispered, his voice barely above a breath.
She sighed deeply, her hands folding in her lap. "Because, Jin Mo, your father has always believed that strength is the key to everything. He was never there when you were born, and the distance between you has shaped his perception of you. He wasn't there to see you grow, to see the kind of person you've become. And he only values those who can prove themselves through strength." She paused, her voice heavy with unspoken sorrow. "That's why I arranged for Sir Cedric to train you, to ensure that you won't be looked down upon, that you won't be bullied. I want you to be strong so that you can earn his approval."
But... why would he treat me like that?" Jin Mo asked, his voice thick with emotion. "Why would he ignore me?"
His mother's expression softened, and she reached out, placing a hand on his. "It's not personal, Jin Mo," she said gently. "Your father has his responsibilities, his burdens. And in his eyes, strength is the only way to survive. It's why he's distant. But despite all of that, no matter what happens or what anyone else thinks of you, you will always have my love. That will never change."
Jin Mo swallowed the lump in his throat, trying to steady the emotions threatening to spill over. He took a deep breath, his resolve hardening. "I understand, Mom. I'll work hard. I'll become strong. I won't disappoint you." His voice, though still soft, was filled with determination.
A warm, loving smile spread across his mother's face, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Oh, Jin Mo," she murmured, pulling him into an embrace. "Come here, my dear. Let me hold you."
As his mother wrapped her arms around him, Jin Mo's heart swelled with a mixture of love and longing. Despite the challenges that lay ahead, he knew one thing for sure—he would prove himself. For her, for himself, and for the love they shared.
"I'll work harder, Mom," he said, trying to keep his voice light, though the fire inside him burned brighter than ever. "I'll show them. I won't be overlooked."
His mother kissed his forehead tenderly, her lips warm and comforting. "That's my dear son. I know you'll make me proud."
The moment passed, and they sat together in silence, the peaceful serenity of the garden enveloping them. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Jin Mo felt at ease. The weight of his responsibilities, of his training, and the looming reunion with his father, all seemed distant in the presence of his mother.
The sun began its descent, casting the garden in a golden glow. The colors of the sky bled into the water, the entire world around them painted in shades of orange and pink. Time seemed to slow as they continued to talk, reminiscing and sharing stories, laughing softly together.
As the last rays of sunlight faded, Jin Mo rose from his seat, his heart heavy but filled with renewed purpose. "I'll see you soon, Mom. I'll make you proud," he said, his voice steady, though a trace of emotion lingered.
She smiled, her love unwavering. "I know you will, my son."
With a final glance at the tranquil garden, Jin Mo turned and made his way back to his room. The preparations for his father's arrival were in full swing, but Jin Mo's mind was focused on one thing: proving his strength, earning his father's recognition, and showing the world that he was far from weak.