Chapitre 28: Qrison.
Zhan's Pov.
I walked to the lounge, relishing in the sense of freedom that enveloped me. The weight of my responsibilities seemed to dissipate with each step I took. As I made my way towards the staff quarters, I couldn't help but anticipate the joy it would bring to Cheng. The thought of his happiness warmed my heart, and I knew that this stay at the staff quarters would be a pleasant one for both of us.
"Where do you think you're going?" A voice startled me. I turned around to see the manager standing behind me with Uncle Hao.
"I'm heading to the staff quarters," I replied.
"You can't work here, Zhan," the manager said sternly. "Your uncle told me that you have been misbehaving at home, and when he searched your bag, he found a stack of cash. He came to return it; he believes you have been stealing money from us."
My eyes widened as I saw the cash in the manager's hand, wrapped in one of my hair ribbons. However, it looked much smaller than my stack. Uncle Hao must have taken most of it. I was foolish to think he would burn my clothes without checking my bag.
Zhan did not steal money. He got the money from the side job you offered him. Cheng hissed from behind me.
"Is he among them?" the manager asked, looking confused. "I don't know him." "Are you covering him because he is your friend?" he hissed.
I was confused. How could the manager forget that he offered me the job? My mind shifted to Liu. He must have messed up the manager's mind somehow. I stepped forward and said, "It was you who offered me the job, sir."
"I never forget a face," he hissed. "Get out of here before I call security. We don't condone such behavior!"
Cheng's anger flared as he addressed the person before him. "Sir, you offered him the job," he stated firmly.
"Either you shut up or leave with him," the manager said to Cheng with a dirty look.
I quickly shook my head, knowing Cheng needed the job to care for his siblings. I could take care of myself, and I didn't want him to jeopardize his position. He clenched his fists and took a deep breath, trying to keep his temper in check.
I was desperate, and this was my only hope, so I fell to my knees and begged the manager for another chance. I pleaded with him and explained that I was an honest person and was not stealing.
"Leave now!" the manager yelled at me. "You should be lucky your uncle begged me not to involve the police. Now get out of my sight before I change my mind!" I quickly got up and left, with Cheng running after me.
Zhan, please come to my house. We can manage until you sort yourself out. Cheng said as we got outside.
I appreciate the offer, Cheng, but I need to do this on my own. I'm sure I'll be alright. Thank you.
Cheng was about to talk, but I cut him off. "I'm okay, really," I said. "I'm not sad anymore. I need to do this on my own and survive. I've been with my uncle for almost 18 years, and I'm not lazy. I can do it alone."
I need a book and a pen. I asked Cheng. Without delay,he got them. Cheng agreed to my request and promised that he would give the letter to whoever came to ask for me.
"And please give him the toiletries too." I added. Without hesitation, Cheng nodded and agreed to my request.
Cheng quickly pulled out a note from his pocket and handed it to me. "Call me if you need anything, or else I will haunt you," he sneered. I smiled and nodded. I clutched the note in my hand and put it in my pocket.
"No hugs," I said jokingly, trying to lighten the mood. "It's like saying goodbye." Cheng chuckled and nodded before turning around and walking away. I felt a sense of pride swell in my chest. I was determined to make it on my own.
I found myself in a situation without a clear destination in mind. However, this city is too expensive for me. With only 500 dollars in my pocket, I knew I had to make the most of it. Despite the limited funds, I was determined to make the best of my situation.
I decided to look for a cheaper city and find a place to stay in a small town.
After walking for hours, I finally saw a line of buses parked on the side of the road. I had no idea where the buses were heading, but I figured I could ask the driver. I approached one of the drivers and asked him for advice on where to go. He told me about a nearby town that was much cheaper than the city I was in. He even offered to take me there for a small fee if I could wait for his turn. I accepted his offer and sat on the bench beside him.
An hour later, the driver's bus started loading, and he asked me to take the front seat. I obliged, but before I got in, I bought snacks and water. I don't know how long the journey will take, but I am ready for the road ahead. I settled in the front seat and watched as the bus filled up. The driver started the engine, and soon we were on our way. I was excited for the journey ahead and enjoyed the scenery as we drove along. Although I had never been outside of Uscana before, I welcomed the opportunity to explore new places and experience different cultures.
Two hours later, I saw a sign that said "Goodbye Uscana" and felt a pang of sadness in my chest. The only family I ever had used me, and now they were glad to be rid of me.
I shook my head, trying to rid my mind of the painful memories of the only man who ever told me he loved me and also betrayed me. I felt heartbroken but sighed and whispered goodbye. I knew I had to start over and was determined to make something of myself. I vowed to never let anyone betray me again, and I would never give my trust away easily. I was ready to take on the world, and I knew I could do anything if I put my mind to it. I was finally free from pain and suffering, and I was ready to move on with my life.
Three hours into our journey, we found ourselves leaving behind the bustling urban areas and venturing onto the quiet rural roads. The transition was palpable as the air around us took on a distinct, unfamiliar scent.
As the cityscape faded into the distance, followed by rolling hills and expansive fields, tranquility enveloped me. The once noisy streets were now replaced by nature's gentle hum. The sound of car horns and sirens was replaced by birds chirping and leaves rustling in the wind.
The air, too, carried a different quality. It was cleaner, fresher, and devoid of heavy pollution. With each breath, I felt my lungs fill with crisp, cool air. The scent of freshly cut grass mingled with the earthy aroma of the surrounding countryside, creating a symphony of fragrances I had never experienced before.
As we continued along the winding rural roads, the landscape transformed before my eyes. Vibrant green fields stretched out as far as the eye could see, dotted with farmhouses and grazing livestock. The pace of life slowed down, mirroring the serene surroundings.
The absence of tall buildings and crowded streets allowed me to appreciate nature's simplicity and beauty. I marveled at the colorful wildflowers dancing in the gentle breeze. I also marveled at the occasional glimpse of a deer bounding through the fields. The rural landscape possessed a magic of its own, captivating me with its raw and unfiltered charm.
With each passing mile, I felt a deeper connection to the land and its inhabitants. Urban chaos and the constant buzz were replaced by peace and serenity. The journey along rural roads provided me with a much-needed respite from city life.
As we ventured further into the countryside, the air carried the scent of freedom and simplicity. This was a stark contrast to the busy metropolis we left behind. I couldn't help but feel gratitude for the opportunity to experience this change of scenery and immerse ourselves in rural life.
"Welcome to Qrison," a sign read as the driver turned left. The place resembles a ghetto, and as the journey progressed, people disembarked at their respective destinations. The atmosphere seemed tense and filled with urgency. The dilapidated buildings and worn-out streets painted a picture of a community struggling to make ends meet. Despite poverty and despair, people here have survived and lived on. I assured myself that I could do the same.
As we ventured further, the environment improved, with more shops and restaurants. The streets were clean, and the buildings were in good condition. It was clear that the people here were doing better than average, and the atmosphere was less tense. It seemed like a community with hope for a better future.
I and a few other people were still on the bus when the driver entered the bus station and turned off his engine. It was already 7 p.m., and I needed a place to sleep for the night. Feeling desperate, I turned to the driver and asked if he knew of any nearby hotels. To my surprise, he suggested his sister's brothel. He assured me that it was a clean and comfortable place to spend the night, if I didn't mind.
Considering the unusual circumstances and the late hour, I decided to take the driver's offer. It seemed like a practical solution. With a mix of curiosity and apprehension, I followed his directions and found myself outside the brothel.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone