Chapter 20 *Flashback* (2/2)

Seeing this, Kyle experienced flashbacks of his past life and how he had been tortured filled his mind. Angered, the adrenaline rush gave him strength beyond a normal 9 year old, and he managed to hold on to the wrist as he twisted it to face towards the man. He pushed with all his strength, and the knife went into the guy's stomach easily. Kyle then twisted it, making the wound bigger before letting go. The man was looking at Kyle in shock, not believing such a young boy was not only skillful, but so ruthless.

Just as the man fell down, there were shouts in the distance, and sounds of feet rushing over to them. Kyle turned, seeing several security guards rushing. Relieved, Kyle turned towards the car but before he could take a step, he fainted.

When he awoke, he found himself in the hospital, being hugged tightly as he lay down. He opened his eyes, and saw that it was Kay holding on to him for dear life, her eyes red. When she saw that he was awake, she started sobbing again, and hugged him tighter.

”Urgh”, Kyle grunted in pain and Kay quickly let go.

”I'm sorry Kyle, I'm so sorry! It's all my fault,” she started, but Kyle put his finger on her lips.

”Ssssh,” he said, ”It's nobody's fault other that those stupid fools. Just be quiet and hug me. I'll heal faster.”

Kay nodded, sniffing and stayed still. Soon, her steady breathing indicated she had fallen asleep. Kyle figured she must have spent the whole night awake, worrying about him. He kissed her forehead.

At that moment, the hospital door opened and Kyle saw his mother walk in. When she saw that he was awake, she rushed over immediately, gingerly touching him.

”How are you feeling? Are you in pain? Do you want me to get them to increase the pain killer dosage?”

Delilah's heart was in pain, seeing her son all bandaged up in bed. He had a slight concussion, split lips and some broken ribs. Doctors told her that it was lucky he was so healthy and his body was strong. Otherwise, the injuries would have been worse. Delilah and Patrick had turned the school upside down, angered that such a thing could happen.

”How are my friends?” Kyle asked, worried.

Kyle found out that the other three had been treated at the hospital as well. His parents had footed the bill as thanks for their bravery. Sam was the least injured, while Xing Han had some broken teeth and Ali was in the adjoining room. The wound on his leg wasn't serious, but he was being kept for a day for observation.

Kyle listened to it all, warmth spreading in his heart. Those three had unhesitatingly rushed in to help, without any care about their own lives. It was obviously dangerous, yet they didn't falter. Kyle knew there and then. Those were his brothers for life. He could never repay them for what they had done. If it wasn't for them, he would have lost Kay.

He looked at his sister, intense relief filling his heart. Losing her would be like losing half of his soul. Did this mean he loved his children less? Kyle shook his head, and regretted it when the pain hit. Closing his eyes, he decided that wasn't important. It wasn't a competition.

What is important is that he is alive, Kay is safe.

And he had three new brothers.