chapter 1 : The Begining
The story begins with a tragic and life-changing event. A 10-year-old boy, Sky, is playing outside when he is suddenly attacked by a dog. The dog, owned by a 12-year-old boy named Jack, violently injures Sky, leaving him in critical condition. Jack, deeply guilt-ridden, rushes to the hospital with Sky, unable to forgive himself for what his dog has done. Jack comes from a privileged background, his family being wealthy and well-established, while Sky's family is far less fortunate. Sky's father, a manipulative gold-digger, blames his son for the attack, demanding a large sum of money to cover the medical expenses, further complicating Sky's already difficult life.
Sky wakes up in the hospital with no memory of the attack, his mind wiped clean of the traumatic experience. His father continues to manipulate him, pressing him for money, while Sky, oblivious to the reasons behind it all, struggles to understand the situation. Jack, consumed by guilt and a strong sense of responsibility, promises to take care of Sky once he matures. His promise is more than just about the injury; it's about redemption and making sure Sky never suffers because of that moment. Jack's wealthy family makes him believe that money can fix anything, but his true intent is to offer something far more valuable: protection and care.
As the years go by, Jack's guilt over the incident grows into a deeper, more complicated affection for Sky. He becomes fiercely protective of him, unable to let go of the promise he made. Jack does everything to ensure Sky's safety, taking him under his wing and even controlling many aspects of Sky's life. He restricts his freedom, not allowing him out past 8 p.m. and constantly checking in on him with frequent phone calls. Jack's behavior, while rooted in love, is also born from an overwhelming fear—fear of losing Sky, fear of failing him again, and fear of the unspoken love he holds for him. But Jack, terrified of the consequences of revealing his true feelings, continues to play the role of the protector, never once acknowledging the romantic feelings blossoming within him.
Sky, sweet and innocent, comes to trust Jack deeply. Unaware of the underlying emotional complexity, he simply sees Jack as a caring older brother figure. He enjoys the attention Jack gives him, even if it means constant check-ins and curfews. Sky feels safe in Jack's presence and believes that Jack's actions stem from brotherly love. He grows attached to Jack's habits, the routine of their interactions, and the comfort of his protectiveness. However, Sky's affection is not entirely innocent; there are times when he wonders if Jack feels something more than just familial love, though he's too young to understand the depth of what is truly happening.
Sky has a best friend, Boss, who has always been by his side. Boss is a calm, supportive presence in Sky's life and is the one person Jack fully trusts to be around Sky. Boss is married to Krish, a successful businessman who happens to be Jack's childhood friend. Krish and Jack have a longstanding relationship, both personally and professionally. Krish, being as perceptive as he is, quickly picks up on the underlying tension between Jack and Sky. He understands Jack's protective instincts are motivated by deeper feelings but keeps his thoughts to himself, offering subtle advice whenever Jack seems conflicted.
One fateful night, Sky and Boss decide to sneak out to a club, something Sky has long wanted to do but never had the chance. Jack, who returns home to find Sky missing, immediately panics. His heart races with fear, and his mind begins to spiral as he wonders where Sky could be. Jack calls Sky, who answers nonchalantly, informing him he is at the club. Jack's anxiety increases, but he tells Sky to stay there and promises he will pick him up. The moment Jack arrives at the club, he is relieved to see Krish already there, waiting to pick up Boss. Krish's presence immediately eases Jack's tension, as it reminds him of the long-standing trust he shares with Krish. Jack knows that Sky is safe, but his emotions are still a whirlwind.
After Krish and Boss leave, Jack confronts Sky in the parking lot, his anger threatening to spill over. But just as Jack is about to scold Sky for sneaking out without telling him, Sky begins to cry. Through his tears, Sky explains that he only wanted to spend time with his friends, never intending to hurt Jack. Sky's vulnerable outburst shatters Jack's resolve. Seeing Sky's tears, Jack's heart softens, and he realizes just how deeply his actions have affected Sky. Instead of raising his voice, Jack gently pats Sky's head and reassures him, saying, "You can go anywhere, but you just need to tell me, so I won't worry." The moment is tender and full of unspoken understanding. Jack realizes that his overprotectiveness may have been stifling Sky's independence, and Sky, in turn, starts to understand that Jack's actions come from a place of love, not control.
Jack takes Sky to the car, and the two drive home, a quiet understanding passing between them. The emotional connection between them has deepened, and the line between love and protection has become more blurred than ever. Jack knows he cannot keep hiding his feelings forever, but he is still too scared to voice them. Sky, still unaware of the true nature of Jack's love, begins to see that there is more to their relationship than he initially thought.
As the story progresses, Jack and Sky's bond continues to grow, exploring the complexities of love, guilt, and the unspoken emotions that shape their lives. Will Jack ever find the courage to confess his feelings to Sky? And how will Sky react when he learns the truth about Jack's deep love for him? Their journey is just beginning, and the road ahead is filled with both challenges and moments of undeniable connection.