Chapter 4: Running Away

Chapter 4: Running Away

4 YEARS LATER

"Mom! Mom!"

As I hear my child's excited voice, I'm reminded of the whirlwind of events that unfolded just a few years ago. It was a time filled with turmoil and uncertainty, and yes, perhaps there are moments I regret, but amidst it all, there are also things I'm grateful for. Despite the challenges and the trials that nearly broke me, I've come to see the silver linings in the consequences of my past missteps.

Now, as I reflect on where I am today, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Despite the hardships, I've grown stronger and wiser. I've learned to appreciate the journey, with all its ups and downs, and I'm grateful for the person I've become.

"Mom!" The sound of my 3-year-old son's voice jolted me out of my reverie, his tiny hands reaching out for me. I found myself sitting in the chair at my desk, facing my laptop. Lost in thought, I hadn't even realized I was spacing out.

For a moment, a dull ache weighed heavy in my chest, but as soon as I snapped back to reality and saw my child calling for me, the pain vanished as if it had never been there at all. I blinked, shaking off the remnants of my daze, and immediately scooped my son into my arms, cradling him close. His laughter filled the room, a sweet melody that chased away any lingering shadows of unease.

In that moment, as I held him tight, I felt a surge of warmth and love flood my heart. The worries and uncertainties that had clouded my mind seemed to melt away, replaced by a profound sense of gratitude for this precious little being in my arms.

With a smile, I whispered, "I'm here, sweetheart. Mama's right here." And as his giggles filled the air, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, as long as I had him by my side, everything would be okay.

"Mama..." another voice called out, and I turned to see my daughter, her face smeared with chocolate that she must have snuck from the fridge. It's my daughter, Shayne, and yes, I not only have one child but two. They are twins—Firoh and Shayne.

My eyes widened with amusement as I watched Shayne toddle toward me, her steps unsteady compared to her brother's confident stride. While Firoh could practically run like a pro, Shayne was still mastering the art of walking without stumbling or falling.

I couldn't help but smile as Shayne approached, her determination evident despite her wobbly steps. She reached out her chocolate-covered hands toward me, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Looks like someone found the chocolate stash," I chuckled, gently wiping the chocolate smudges from her face. Shayne giggled in response, her laughter filling the room with pure joy.

As I held both of my precious children close, I felt a surge of overwhelming love wash over me. Despite the challenges and uncertainties of the past, moments like these reminded me of the incredible blessings I had in my life—two beautiful children who filled my days with laughter and love.

"Come on, let's get washed up now. Aren't we going to visit Aunt Robiya today?" I announced with a smile, prompting excited cheers from both Firoh and Shayne.

The mere mention of Robiya's name ignited a spark of anticipation and enthusiasm in the air. Robiya wasn't just a friend; she was an integral part of our lives—a cherished member of our family. From the moment I arrived in Japan, heavily pregnant with the twins four years ago, Robiya had been by my side, offering unwavering support and friendship.

I couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude as I thought about all the times Robiya had been there for us, through thick and thin. Her presence had brought so much joy and comfort into our lives, and I was truly blessed to have her as a friend.

After the kids and I cleaned ourselves and dressed up, I decided to take them to the park to spend some quality time together. As we wandered through the park, laughter filling the air, I couldn't resist the urge to capture the moment. Pulling out my phone, I snapped a picture of us together—a snapshot of the love and happiness that filled our little family.

Oh, how I cherished every single moment with them. They were my children—my own family, something I had longed for my entire life. In their laughter and smiles, I found a sense of completeness that I had never known before.

I didn't need anyone else. Just having them by my side was more than enough for me. They were my everything, and as long as we had each other, I knew we could conquer anything that life threw our way.

As my phone rang, I glanced down to see Robiya's name flashing on the screen. With a smile, I answered the call.

"Hello, Robiya," I greeted warmly.

"Feliza, where are you now? Should I pick you guys up?" Robiya's voice came through the phone, filled with eagerness.

I shook my head, even though she couldn't see me. "Nah, we're good. I brought a car. We'll be there right now," I assured her, glancing over at my kids playing happily on the playground with other children. My heart swelled with pride as I watched Firoh help his sister stand up after she had fallen.

"Are you sure? I can pick you up if you want," Robiya offered again, her concern evident in her tone.

"No, really. We're good," I insisted.

Robiya sighed on the other end of the line. "Fine. Be careful, okay? I'll be waiting for you here. Trishia already missed you guys," she added, mentioning her own daughter, Trishia. "She's been wanting to see you and the twins."

"Thanks, Robiya. We'll see you soon," I said warmly before ending the call.

Turning back to my children, I smiled at the sight of their carefree laughter and playful antics. They were growing up so quickly, and moments like these were precious beyond measure.

"Alright, kiddos, time to head to Aunt Robiya's house," I announced, prompting excited cheers from Firoh and Shayne.

As we arrived at Robiya's house, Trishia greeted us at the door with a wide grin and eager hugs. Her excitement was contagious, and my children eagerly reciprocated her enthusiasm, their laughter echoing through the hallway.

"Come in, come in!" Robiya exclaimed, ushering us inside with warm hospitality. The scent of homemade curry wafted through the air, making my stomach rumble in anticipation.

We settled into the cozy living room, surrounded by familiar comforts and the soothing ambiance of Robiya's home. Trishia wasted no time in pulling out her toys, eager to share them with her younger friends.

Meanwhile, Robiya disappeared into the kitchen to put the finishing touches on our meal. As the delicious aroma continued to fill the air, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the warmth and hospitality extended to us by our dear friend.

As we gathered around the table, laughter and chatter filled the air, accompanied by the clinking of utensils and the occasional burst of childish giggles. In that moment, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude.

After the delicious meal, I insisted on helping Robiya with the dishes. She protested, claiming that she could handle them herself, but I shook my head and firmly told her that I wanted to contribute.

Reluctantly, she relented, and I rolled up my sleeves, ready to tackle the mountain of dishes piled in the sink. As I scrubbed and rinsed, Robiya hovered nearby, watching over me with a mixture of amusement and affection.

Despite her initial protests, I could tell that she appreciated the gesture.

"You know what, you've been good with the chores, huh?" Robiya remarked, a playful glint in her eyes.

I blushed at the unexpected compliment. "Really?"

"Yeah, really. When you first arrived here in Japan, you didn't even know how to cook an egg," she teased.

I couldn't help but giggle at the memory. "I was so clueless back then."

Robiya laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Just admit it, Feliza. I know you're from a royal family."

My laughter bubbled up uncontrollably. It wasn't the first time Robiya had joked about my supposed royal lineage. For the past four years, she had playfully teased me about my smooth and flawless skin, my graceful movements, and even the way I spoke. Despite my protests and attempts to explain that I was just an adoptive child with humble origins, she always insisted on her theory.

In truth, my real parents were common people who tragically passed away during my childhood days. But to Robiya, I would always be the royal friend from a faraway kingdom.

As our laughter subsided, Robiya suddenly changed the topic, her expression turning thoughtful.

"You know, Feliza, Father's Day is coming up soon," she said, her voice taking on a more serious tone.

I nodded, a pang of sadness tugging at my heart. Father's Day had always been a bittersweet occasion for me, a reminder of the parents I had lost and the void that still lingered in my heart.

"Yeah, I've been thinking about it," I admitted quietly.

Robiya reached out to squeeze my hand, her eyes filled with understanding. "I know it's not easy, especially with everything you've been through. But you're doing an amazing job raising Firoh and Shayne on your own. They're lucky to have you as their mother."

Her words touched me deeply, a comforting reminder that even in the midst of loss and hardship, I was not alone. With Robiya's unwavering support and the love of my children, I found strength and resilience to face each day with courage and determination.

"Thanks, Robiya," I said softly, gratitude swelling in my chest. "I couldn't do it without you."

Robiya smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting genuine affection. "Anytime, Feliza. You and the kids mean the world to me."

As we walked back to the living room, the sound of my children's laughter filled the air, warming my heart with its infectious joy. Seeing Firoh and Shayne giggling happily, their innocent smiles lighting up the room, I couldn't help but feel a surge of love and gratitude.

But beneath the surface of my contentment, a pang of regret gnawed at my heart. I couldn't shake the feeling that I had deprived my children of something essential—a complete family, with a father to guide and protect them. Despite their current happiness, I knew that as they grew older, they would inevitably feel the absence of their father keenly.

But then again, who could blame me for my decision? I couldn't bear to expose my children to the dark and dangerous world of their father—the world of the mafia. I couldn't risk them growing up to become monsters like their father, tainted by the violence and corruption that surrounded him.

No, I refused to let that happen. I would do whatever it takes to protect my children, even if it meant sacrificing their longing for a father figure. For their safety and well-being, I would gladly bear the burden of their disappointment and resentment.

As I watched them play, their innocent laughter echoing through the room, I made a silent vow to myself: I would do everything in my power to give them a happy and fulfilling life, even if it meant facing my own regrets and sacrifices along the way.