Chapter 148: Is It Worth It
Standing in front of the towering monolith that served as the core of the second realm, Arthur and Josh prepared to go their separate ways.
Before they touched the monolith to initiate their transfers, Josh turned to face Arthur one final time. What Arthur saw on the boy’s face took his breath away—it was one of the biggest and most genuine smiles he had ever witnessed. Despite everything that had happened, despite the terror and near-death experience, Josh’s expression radiated pure gratitude and something that looked almost like wonder.
Gloss still coated Josh’s eyes from the tears he had shed earlier, but now they seemed to shine with a different kind of emotion. When he spoke, his voice was broken but filled with an intensity that made Arthur’s chest tighten.
"Arthur Kendrick."
The sudden use of his full name startled Arthur, sending a jolt of surprise through his system. He looked at Josh with confusion written clearly across his features, unsure why the boy had chosen this moment for such formality.
"Yes?" Arthur replied, his voice uncertain.
Josh’s smile somehow managed to grow even deeper, transforming his entire face. The expression was so pure, so completely without artifice, that it was almost painful to look at directly.
"I won’t forget that name until the day I die," Josh said, his words carrying the weight of absolute sincerity. "If it wasn’t for you being there to save me, I most certainly would have died a horrible death today. You’re a hero."
What was meant to be the highest compliment instead stung deep in his heart, each letter cutting through his defenses like a blade. His eyes immediately averted from Josh’s earnest gaze, unable to bear the weight of such undeserved praise.