Chapter 120 Hurt His Feelings
However, compared to them, this little guy was much more emaciated, and he was evidently malnourished.
Vania dared not ask when the last meal he had was or what his daily life was like, for she knew the answer would only shatter her heart.
Anyhow, from this day on, his past would be left in that place and his future would be bright.
On their journey to the city, the little guy sat limply in his spot the whole time as he watched the reversing buildings from the window.
He had never left that place, nor did he ever think he could leave that place alive someday.
Though he couldn’t recall most things in his toddler years, he still remembered how the neighbors described the city.
Now, it was his turn to see it for himself, and he couldn’t help feeling apprehensive.
She had been studying the little guy’s every action and noticed that he would just stare out the window. Hence, every time they passed by something interesting, she would explain it to him with utmost patience, and just like that, he had learned far more in this one hour than he ever had in the five years of his life.
When they arrived at the hotel, Vania held his hand as they got out of the car.
However, the little guy dared not take another step when he saw the grand entrance.
How is it possible for a place to be so pretty? It didn’t seem like he should be here, though. At that, he took a reflexive step back.
Vania felt his retreating step from their held hands, and with that, she squatted down to slowly explain, “This is called a hotel. It’s a place for travelers to stay temporarily. Our home is in Hammond; it is very far away from Eastland, and it’s also Hillsworth’s most vibrant city. I’m staying here temporarily because I’m here to pick you up. You don’t have to be afraid. Just follow me.”
The little guy still wouldn’t speak, his lips sealed shut. However, he would trust everything that Vania told him unconditionally.
At that, he followed Vania discreetly, fearing that his filthy shoes would dirty the clean carpet.
Then, he glanced at the strangers only to droop his head again, not daring to take another peek.
He still didn’t dare to rely on her wholly, only feeling safe as he hid in that so-called inner world.
On the other hand, Vania had been trying her best, hoping she could give him some warmth, but this was probably his first time in the outside world. Things could only get better if they took it slow.
Hence, she would explain everything they came across in detail. She’d explain what something was and what it was used for.
Vania knew he was a smart boy, so he would understand everything she said.
On the other hand, the boy followed her like the sweet little child he was, taking note of everything she told him.
When they got to their room, she squatted down in front of him again. “Here we are. This is where I’m staying for now. Would you like to rest first or take a shower while I get you your clothes? After that, we’ll eat a little something and head home tomorrow morning. How does that sound?”
Home? The word had clearly stumped the little guy, and he reflexively leaned against the wall behind him.
Will I also have a home now? I’m not good enough for the home she’s talking about, though.
At that, he lowered his head in self-loathing and shook his head as he looked at his ragged clothes.
Vania panicked immediately, for she had no idea what she had said wrongly for him to react so drastically. However, facing a child like him had forbidden her from panicking, or one little mistake might hurt his feelings.
With that, she tried her best to soothe him. “You can always tell me if you have any questions or if I’ve said something wrong.”
