Alvin's POV :-

It was a calm and quiet night in the month of July. I was perched on a comfortable chair at my study table. The only sound was the scratching of my pencil on my notebook as I worked on my homework. It was July, and the heat of the day had long since dissipated. The clock ticked closer to midnight, but my love for learning and doing my homework kept me going, I was determined to finish my work. I loved to learn, and I was determined to make the most of the opportunities that were available to me.

I was living in an orphanage, but it was unlike any other I had ever heard of, it was different and special. Each child had their own room, but they were free to choose to live with others if they wished. There were only a few of us left now, maybe ten or fifteen, and most of them were younger than me, between seven and ten years old. Alice and I were the only older ones left here.

The orphanage spared no expense in ensuring our comfort and well-being. It offered us a plethora of amenities, making it feel like a true home.

One of the highlights of our orphanage was the small front yard, adorned with various play equipment, including slides and swings. It was a place where laughter echoed, and friendships were forged. The caretakers took great care in maintaining the yard, ensuring it was always a safe and enjoyable space for us to play and unwind. We were free to play in front yard whenever we wanted. We had good food to eat, and we were always warm and comfortable. Most importantly, we had each other. We were a family, and we looked out for each other.

Despite the dwindling number of orphans, the orphanage faced financial struggles. However, the staff never let this hinder their dedication to our well-being. They worked tirelessly to provide us with the best possible care, ensuring that we had everything we needed to thrive.

The caretakers and staff members were equally remarkable. They were kind-hearted individuals who genuinely cared for our happiness and growth. They went above and beyond their duties, creating a nurturing environment that felt like a true family. Their dedication and hard work were evident in every aspect of our daily lives. They did everything they could just for us.

However, Mrs. Smith, the head of our orphanage, who truly held everything together. She was a remarkable woman, handling all the administrative tasks with grace and efficiency. Her dedication and passion for the welfare of the orphans were evident in every decision she made. She handled her responsibilities with grace and efficiency, ensuring that the orphanage ran smoothly.

Mrs. Smith was not just a director; she was a mother figure to all of us and not just her every staff-member was a mother figure to us, offering guidance, support, and love whenever we needed it. Mrs. Smith worked tirelessly to make sure that we had everything we needed. The caretakers were all wonderful people, too, and they did their best to make us feel at home. They were the unsung heroes, the ones who made a difference in our lives.

Despite all the good things about the orphanage, there was one thing that worried me. The orphanage was struggling financially, and I knew that if things didn't improve, it might not be able to continue. That's why I was so determined to study hard and do well in school. I wanted to be successful so that I could help the orphanage and make sure that it continued to provide a home for children who needed it. It's also my way of thanking to the place that had given me hope, love, and a chance at a brighter future. I would forever cherish the memories and the love it had bestowed upon me.

I absolutely relish the tranquility of my room, where I can study undisturbed. The peaceful atmosphere allows me to focus and concentrate on my work. However, my solitude was abruptly interrupted when I felt a gentle touch on my shoulder. I turned around, only to find Alice standing there, her innocent blue eyes fixed on me. She was clad in comfortable pajamas, as if she had just rolled out of bed.

This mischievous girl never seems to leave me alone, constantly shadowing me everytime and following me like as if I were a lost puppy in need of constant supervision. I couldn't help but wonder, do I resemble a puppy to her. With a curious expression, she inquired, "When are you going to sleep?"

I looked at my homework, which was almost complete, and quickly finished it in a few seconds. I put it aside and replied, "It's done. I'm going to read some books now."

Her face contorted into a slight frown as she pleaded, "Aww, come on! I was awake all this time, waiting for you to sleep with me." She pouted and wasn't satisfied with my answer.

I sighed, understanding the consequences of her presence in my room. If Mrs. Smith were to discover that Alice was not sleeping in her own room but instead in mine, we would both find ourselves in trouble. It was simply not appropriate, despite the fact that she often slept beside me. I gently explained, "You shouldn't be here. If Mrs. Smith finds out, we'll both get in trouble. It's important to follow the rules, Alice, I know you're used to sleeping with me, but it's time to change that habit and most importantly it isn't appropriate."

I stood up, walked over to my bag, and retrieved a Korean book from it. Returning to my chair, I sat back down, I opened the book and began reading, hoping to divert her attention, ready to immerse myself in it's pages.

But Alice had other plans. She came over, perching herself on my lap and wrapping her arms around me as if it were the most natural thing in the world. I tried to focus on the book in front of me, but her presence obstructed my view specially her chest.

The room was bathed in the soft glow of a desk lamp, casting a warm and cozy ambiance. The scent of book filled the air, mingling with the faint fragrance of Alice's shampoo. Her pajamas were adorned with cute cartoon characters, adding a touch of whimsy. their fabric caressing her body with a delicate touch. Her silky black hair cascaded down her shoulders, shimmering under the soft glow of the room. The silver big hoop circle earrings she wore added a touch of elegance to her ensemble, perfectly complementing her radiant features.

In that moment, Alice appeared absolutely lovely, her beauty enhanced by the simplicity of her attire. The way she effortlessly exuded charm and grace was truly captivating, leaving me unable to tear my gaze away.

Despite my best efforts to concentrate on my book, her closeness and the gentle rise and fall of her chest distracted me momentarily.

A blush crept onto my cheeks, and I mustered the courage to look up at her face. "Can you please sit somewhere else?" I requested, my voice tinged with embarrassment.

Teasingly, she responded, "I'm quite comfortable here. Are you feeling embarrassed, my dear?" Her playful tone only served to heighten my blush and she started giggling.

Maintaining my composure, I shook my head, "It's not that I'm embarrassed, I'm just having trouble reading the book with you in this position."

She got up and then sat back down on my lap, but this time she made sure that I could see the pages. "Is this okay?" she asked, wrapping her arms around my neck.

I nodded, relieved that she had listened to my request but she didn't moved away from me, I decided not to think abou it. I began to delve into the book once more. However, I couldn't help but notice her unwavering gaze fixed upon me, her innocent eyes making me feel slightly uneasy. Attempting to ignore her, I continued reading, but her persistence grew. Suddenly, she began to make a puppy face, a look that was impossible to ignore. Finally, I relented and looked up at her, I let out a heavy sigh, "You wanted my attention, didn't you? What do you want to talk about?"

Her face lit up with a bright smile, "Well, I wanted to talk about our future."

Confused, I clarified, "You mean what we want to become in the future, right?"

She shook her head, her, "No, I mean our future together."

I felt my heart skip a beat at her words. We weren't even dating, and we were so young to be talking about our future together. "Look, we can't talk about that stuff. We're not even dating, and we're too young to be thinking about our future together. Let's just enjoy being friends for now, okay?"

She looked disappointed, but she nodded her head in agreement. "Okay, I understand. But I believe in us. I want to envision a future where we're together, where we support and grow with each other. It's never too early to dream, is it?"

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond. We were both only fifteen, and it's true that we had been living in the orphanage together ever since we were just babies. We were extremely close.

I finally said, trying to let her down gently, "Look, we can't. We aren't even dating, and we're so young to talk about that stuff. We can talk about it when we get older."

Her lips curved into a sad face, and I could tell that my answer had disappointed her. "Why can't we talk about it now?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

I sighed, searching for a reasonable explanation. "Because we're still young, we can't do it. What if the caretakers of the orphanage found out about this? It could cause trouble."

"They already know," she said, smiling brightly. "Come on, it's obvious."

My eyes widened in surprise. "What the?" I guess she does have a point.

She shrugged, her smile fading slightly. "Except Mrs. Smith, though," she added.

Relief washed over me at the mention of Mrs. Smith. If she found out about our connection, I couldn't even imagine the consequences we would face.

She seemed sad, but she respected my decision. "Well, I guess we can talk about it when we get older, but, don't you dare go out with other girls, Mr. Perfect. Your eyes are only for me, got it?"

I couldn't help but chuckle at her possessiveness. "Are you jealous, by any chance?" I asked, teasingly.

She pouted, her cheeks turning a slight shade of pink. "Well, of course I get jealous. I get afraid that some girl might steal you from me."

She continued with jealousy in her voice, "Come on, who wouldn't want to go out with a guy handsome and cute as you? I mean, seriously, you're like the top dog in our school! You excel in academics, sports, and pretty much everything you put your mind to. And let's not forget, you're even fearless when it comes to fighting!"

Your smile lights up the room, and your presence is like a magnet, drawing everyone towards you. You effortlessly excel in academics, leaving your peers in awe of your intelligence and dedication.

But it doesn't stop there! You're not just a brainiac; you're a sports superstar too. Whether it's on the basketball court, the soccer field, or the track, you dominate with your skills and passion. Your opponents tremble in fear as you effortlessly score goals, sink baskets, and leave them in the dust.

But what really sets you apart is your fearlessness. You never back down from a challenge, whether it's standing up for yourself or defending others. You defend the weak and protect the innocent.

Your bravery is truly admirable, and it's no wonder everyone looks up to you. You are the guy who every girl dreams of-

Before she could speak any word, I put my finger on her lips to silence her. My face was already red like a tomato as I tried to brush off her compliments. "I get it. Please Stop praising me."

She nodded and her lips curled into a smile. I breathed a sigh of relief as I removed my finger and went back to reading my book.

I reassured her, "You don't need to worry about that. I won't go out with other girls, okay?"

But she insisted, "No, I want you to promise me that you won't. You're like a magnet in school, always attracting girls. I know that."

I smiled at her, "Okay, I promise."

But then, a hint of sadness crept into my voice as I continued, "But you know what if you got adopted?" The thought of her being taken away from me, from the life we had built together, weighed heavily on my mind.

She remained seated on my lap as I turned the page of the book in my hands. Slowly, she leaned in, placing her forehead against mine and closing her eyes.

My heart began to pound so intensely in my chest that it was almost painful. My face turned completely red and I felt as though I might faint.

Her voice was soft and gentle as she spoke, "You silly. It doesn't matter to me wherever I am or wherever you are, even if I am far away from you, I will still love you and that won't change, understand?"

Her words washed over me, filling me with a mixture of emotions. I blushed, feeling a flutter of butterflies in my stomach, and managed to stammer out a simple, "Okay."

She said firmly, "And even if they tried to adopt me, I will say that I don't like them there, it's over."

I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at her, "Um, isn't that a bit harsh? If you find good parents for you, you should go. Not everyone has the privilege of finding good parents in this world."

But she shook her head adamantly. "I am not going to leave you. I only want you in my life and no one else, you are my everything." I blushed again and didn't responded.

She pulled away, still seated on my lap, and looked at me with a curious expression. Her gaze then shifted to the book I was reading, and she exclaimed, "Woah, is that Korean? How did you learn Korean?"

Her eyes widened in awe, she exclaimed, "Woah, you are amazing. How many languages can you speak?"

I chuckled softly, feeling a sense of pride. "I speak English, Korean, and the language of your heart," I replied, with a twinkle in my eye.

Her cheeks flushed slightly, and she teased, "Smooth."

Blushing in response, I found myself at a loss for words, choosing instead to remain silent, allowing the moment to speak for itself.

She said, "Hey, why don't you say something to me in Korean?"

I smiled and replied, "Saranghae."

Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she asked, "What does that mean?"

I jokingly said, "That means you are stupid."

She playfully scolded me, exclaiming, "How rude!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction and said, "Well, then you should say 'nado saranghae,' which means you are stupid too."

Without any hesitation, she playfully responded, "Nado saranghae then." Her quick wit always amazed me.

After a few minutes, exhaustion washed over me, and I let out a yawn. I placed my book on the table and said, "Good, now will you be so kind as to get up from my lap? I want to sleep now." However, she didn't budge. Instead, she wrapped her arms tightly around my neck, refusing to let go. She pleaded, "I won't move dear, carry me to the bed."

Sighing, I realized I didn't have many options. I slid my left arm under her legs and my right arm around her back, carefully lifting her up. I held her in a bridal carry and walked towards the bed, gently placing her down. I grabbed the blanket and tucked her in, making sure she was comfortable.

"There you go," I said, looking down at her.

She smiled at me, her eyes filled with warmth, and said, "Can I get a goodnight kiss?" I sighed, knowing she wouldn't listen to me. Giving in to her request, I leaned closer and kissed her forehead. She beamed at me cutely and said, "Good night, sweet dreams. I hope I will be in them."

Blushing, I replied, "Good night." I watched as she slowly closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. She looked so peaceful and adorable. With a contented sigh, I walked over to my study table and sat down on the chair, lost in my thoughts about our future.

She loved me, and I loved her too, but I wanted to be the best version of myself for her. I wanted to make her happy, even if it meant overthinking things and sacrificing my own happiness for her. Perhaps, for now, I should focus on the present and cherish our teenage years together.

Lost in my thoughts, I was suddenly startled by scratching sounds coming from my window. I turned my head to the right, where the noise was coming from, and cautiously approached the window. Opening it, I peered outside, but there was nothing there, only the chilling wind rustling through the trees. Puzzled, I closed the window and tried to dismiss it as my imagination playing tricks on me.

Perplexed, I closed the window and attempted to dismiss the incident as a figment of my imagination. Yet, a nagging feeling persisted. I was certain I had heard those scratching sounds. Unable to resist, I opened the window once more, placing my hand on the glass, searching for any signs of scratches. To my relief, there were none. I closed the window. I didn't want to dwell on it too much, so I decided to let it go and focus on getting some rest.

Climbing into bed beside Alice, I made sure to be as quiet as possible, not wanting to disturb her peaceful slumber. I pulled the blanket up to my chin and turned my head to the right, where she lay sleeping like an angel. A smile crept across my lips as I watched her.

However, sleep eluded me, and I found myself lying there, unable to shake off the haunting memories of Dylan. It had been five long years since June's tragic death, but the memories were still as vivid as if it had happened just yesterday. It was that day, the day everything changed, because I hadn't stopped them from venturing into the dangerous ruins.

Lost in my thoughts, I lay there, wide awake, the weight of the past heavy on my shoulders. It all happened because of me. I am responsible for her death.

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✪ Note

1) Saranghae means 'I love you.'

2) Nado Saranghae means 'I love you too.'