Page 316 of Scarbound

His mother’s voice was enough to make something tighten inside his chest.

“Are you all right? You haven’t called in days.”

“I’m fine.”

The answer came automatically.

Too automatically.

Duri glanced at him but said nothing.

“We’ve been worried,” his mother continued. “Your father keeps asking whether I’ve heard from you. Ji-Woo tells us you’re getting better, but… I wanted to hear your voice myself.”

Noeul lowered his gaze to the sidewalk as they walked. “I’m getting better,” he corrected gently. “I’m not there yet.”

There was a brief silence.

“Are you still staying with Duri and his mother?”

“Yes. They’ve taken good care of me.”

“And where are you now?”

Noeul looked around him. People passed in both directions. Cars moved through the street. Petals from late-spring blossoms drifted across the sidewalk, carried by the wind.

For some reason, saying it aloud felt important.

“I’m outside.”

“Outside?”

A faint smile touched his lips. “Yes, eomma. I went out today. I’m with Ji-Woo and Duri.”

His mother exhaled, the sound almost trembling with relief. “That’s good, Noeul.”

“I know.”

“Come home when you feel ready. Your father and I want to see you.”

Noeul was quiet for a few steps.

Home.

There were too many meanings attached to that word now.

“I will,” he said at last. “Soon. I promise.”

“You don’t have to stay long. Just come eat with us.”

“I’ll come for dinner.”

“Really?”

Noeul smiled. “Really. I’ll call you first.”

His mother’s voice softened. “I’ll make your favorite.”

“You don’t have to.”