Chapter 9 — Evidence That Doesn't Lie

"Then do your best to keep moving forward. The road ahead is long, but it is by no means impossible to reach the destination."

During the ride back, I leaned my head against the window and drifted into a light slumber. When I awoke, a new comment appeared before my eyes, hovering in the periphery of my vision: "Tomorrow, the temperature will drop, so remember to bring a coat." I was taken aback for a moment, then could not help but let out a soft, genuine laugh. It no longer warned me of impending betrayals, nor did it forecast the machinations of those plotting my downfall. It had simply begun to remind me to take good care of myself. On my phone, a notification chimed—a message from my faculty advisor:

"Lam Van, welcome to the research team. The new survey plan will be discussed during our meeting next week."

I typed out my response: "I have received the information, Professor."

The sky outside the window began to deepen into twilight. Across the horizon, the city lights flickered to life one by one, shimmering like fallen stars against the encroaching dark. I suddenly felt as though my life were a train track that had finally been realigned. Once, there had been those who hungered to derail me, to push me off the path entirely. But I had managed to hold my ground, protecting the essence of who I was. From this point onward, I would walk with a much firmer, more confident stride. And I would venture much, much further than I had ever dared to dream.