Page 234 of Scarbound

He didn’t reach for him.

Duri remained beside Noeul as they moved through the penthouse. Ji-Woo walked slightly ahead, making sure the way was clear.

Noeul never saw Chung-Hee.

CHAPTER 55

Crossing the garden took less than a minute. To Noeul, it seemed much longer. Cold air touched his face. He stopped. For a second, Duri thought he might panic again. Instead, Noeul lifted his head.

Light rain fell over the garden, a few drops catching in his hair. He watched them gather on the leaves. Duri waited. Noeul seemed almost unaware of where he was, but something about the cold air held his attention.

“Hyung?”

Noeul blinked.

Duri pointed toward the open doors of the neighboring penthouse. “Just there.”

Noeul looked. Warm light spilled onto the garden. He took another step. Then another.

“Eomma, we’re back,” Duri called quietly.

His mother appeared almost immediately.

“Duri…”

She stopped.

“Oh my God.”

Noeul recoiled at the sudden voice.

Duri’s mother caught herself and lowered her voice immediately. “I’m sorry.”

Noeul stared at her.

She remained several steps away. “My name is Kang Yujin. This is my home.” Her voice stayed soft. “You can stay here.”

Noeul looked around the unfamiliar apartment. His fingers tightened around Duri’s sleeve.

“We’re next door,” he said. “Remember?”

Noeul frowned. “Next…”

“Yes.” Duri pointed toward the glass doors behind them. “We crossed the garden.”

Noeul looked back at the darkness outside, then slowly nodded, though Duri wasn’t certain he truly understood.

His mother looked at Duri. “He needs a doctor.”

“Yes.”

“Now.”

“Ji-Woo is arranging it.”

“I’ll call Dr. Daniels too.”

Duri nodded. “Tell him it’s urgent. Head injury. He’s confused and barely standing.”