61 MIGHT BE YOUR FATHER (1/2)

Tracking her father proved to be more difficult than anticipated. However, it was not impossible. Hu Lei followed his route along the border of Argentina and Chile to a small market. Like other places in the rural setting, she could not fit in though she did make efforts to avoid sticking out. Since she had come this far, she could not back down.

She immediately started inquiring about her father from the people in the market. Currently, she had no hope of remaining incognito. Therefore, her hope was to find information as soon as possible and plan her next steps. She approached most of the shopkeepers and a couple of roadside vendors, but none of them knew about Hu Ming. She could not think where else to look because there was no hotel in this small place.

While she was feeling distressed, she noticed a church. She almost smiled at her foolishness. If there was one thing she had understood over the years about churches in rural areas, it was their convenience in times of trouble. Most, except for the relatively high-profile churches, would remain unlocked or at least unsecured. They were perfect for spending the night when one had no choice. Even if there was someone in the church, they would have to be welcoming if only for outward appearance.

If her father had been here, he would have definitely have gone to the church in place of a hotel. Feeling reenergised, the dusty Hu Lei walked fast to the church. When she entered the sanctuary, her body immediately felt cooler. Riding a bicycle for the better half of the day in the hot sun was overwhelming even under her wide-brimmed hat.

She approached the front of the church before seating on one of the poorly made benches which served as pews. She knew that it would not be long before someone comes. In small places like these, news about strangers travelled faster than the wind.

After about half an hour, a middle aged man walked into the church. Hu Lei had already rested enough and centred herself. She felt that her journey across the globe was coming to an end. It would be a relief to finally return home. Her thoughts drifted to a handsome evil emperor. Soon, she would see him.

”Are you seeking for spiritual guidance or directions, my child?” the Reverend of the church spoke with good humour, approaching Hu Lei.

”I am sorry for intruding so discourteously. I am actually looking for my father. He is not well in the mind. We were on a tour and he just disappeared. I tried to find him, and I ended up here.” She stood up and explained tearfully.

The man seemed to sympathise with her, especially looking at how weary she looked. There was not an inch of her clothes which was not covered in a layer of dust. In addition, her short stature made her look like a lost little lamb. She offered a worn out photo of her father with desperate hope.

”I have not seen a foreigner in this market for a long time.” He responded with a shake of his head.

Hu Lei sensed that the Reverend was not telling her everything. There was something that flickered in his eyes though he really didn't seem to know Hu Ming. She broke out into the sob of a daughter regretting failing her father. Anyone hearing these cries would be moved.

”Do not cry, child. All hope is not lost.” The man continued after a moment.

”What do you mean?” She looked up in fearful anticipation.

”I heard that there was a foreigner who was found collapsed on the road. He was taken to the hospital for treatment. Perhaps, it might be your father.” The man sounded hesitant.