Chapter 96: Do I like this new life? Maybe not
The village near the beach was a peaceful place, nestled between stretches of golden sand and fields of ripening strawberries. The small market was always bustling, with vendors selling fresh produce, fish from the morning’s catch, and handmade goods. Children ran around barefoot, playing in the dirt paths that crisscrossed the village, while the salty breeze carried the scent of the ocean across the fields.
In one of those strawberry fields, Ash was hard at work, helping out the local grandpa who owned the land. Grandpa was an old, scrappy man, full of vigor despite his age. His voice carried over the fields as he scolded his workers and cursed at the sun for being too hot.
"Hey, Ash!" Grandpa barked, shaking his cane at him from the edge of the field. "You better finish up quick! You know what happens if you’re late—no dinner for you, and I mean it this time!"
Ash laughed softly as he stacked the trays of already-picked strawberries. "I’ll be there, don’t worry," he called back with a smile. He carefully moved the trays into the cool storage shed, ensuring they wouldn’t spoil under the afternoon sun.
As the day wound down, Ash wiped the sweat from his brow and stretched his aching muscles. It was tiring work, but somehow, in this quiet village, it brought him peace. He packed up the last of the strawberries and made his way to Grandpa’s small house, whistling a cheerful tune.
As he walked down the dirt road, he spotted a small boy running towards him—Lucas, the son of their neighbours, with a book bag slung over his shoulder and a wide grin on his little face.
"When can I come over to do my homework, brother Ash?" the boy asked, panting a little from his run.
Ash knelt down, playfully pinching Lucas’ chubby cheeks, making the boy groan and swat his hand away. "Tonight, after dinner," Ash said with a warm laugh, ruffling Lucas’ hair. "Grandpa’s a bit under the weather, so I’ve got to take care of him first."
Lucas nodded, his big brown eyes full of cute understanding. "Okay! I’ll be over soon!" he chirped, and with that, he took off running back towards his house, waving over his shoulder.
Ash stood up, watching him go with a fond smile before heading toward Grandpa’s house. It was a humble place, worn from years of use but filled with warmth and memories. Ash felt a sense of belonging here, even though the pain from his past still lingered.
As he stepped onto the porch, the sound of the ocean in the distance reminded him of how far he’d come from the chaos of the city and the memories that haunted him. He was building something new here—a life that, while simple, brought him moments of happiness.