Chapter 14 — Forced to Peel Shrimps, I Smashed an Entire Family

It is said that in the detention camp, when Luu Mai found out about this, she was so depressed that she fell seriously ill, and Co Vien Son became visibly old overnight. What they get in return is only their own consequences. For my timely action in the incident, I was awarded an outstanding citizen certificate and a worthy bonus. The company also completely changed its attitude, not only recognizing me but also viewing me as a positive role model. My superiors even mentioned a promotion. My life seems to have crossed a boundary, from gloomy days to a bright sky. All negative things seemed to disappear from the moment he was led away in handcuffs. I refused all interview invitations, because for me, everything was over, I didn't want to continue living in the eyes of others. I returned to my apartment, the space was familiar, warm and quiet, everything was still there as if it had never changed. I bought a bunch of sunflowers and placed them in the living room, the yellow petals facing the light, like a reminder. I took a vacation for myself, not going to a crowded place, but driving to the countryside where my grandmother used to live. The old house is still there, simple and a bit old, but the flower tree in the front yard still blooms as if it had never grown old. I sat under the canopy of a tree, made a pot of tea, looked at the smoke from the kitchen and the fields in the distance, my heart truly calmed down for the first time. I remember that short marriage, which lasted less than a month but was enough to make me a lot more mature. I lost someone I thought was important, but in return, I saw their nature and my own clearly. I once faced danger, but thanks to that, I realized how strong I am. What couldn't knock me down, only made me stronger in the end. When the vacation ended, I returned to the city with a completely different mindset. I started learning martial arts, not out of fear, but because I wanted to understand my own limits and overcome them. My body gradually got stronger and my spirit became more steadfast. Half a year later, the official verdict was announced. Co Dich was sentenced to a long term for many serious acts, and Co Dinh was also punished for his role in the incident. Due to poor health, Luu Mai did not have to serve his sentence in the camp, while Co Vien Son received a suspended sentence. The family that once considered itself above everything ended up collapsing in a way that no one could save. As for me, I no longer think about them. I was promoted, had a more stable income, bought a new house and welcomed my parents to live with me. Life becomes simple but full, no more pressure, no more darkness. I'm still single, but I've never felt deprived, because next to me are loved ones and an open future. One afternoon driving home, the radio rang out a familiar song.

“Only by leaving the wrong can we encounter the right.”

I looked at the sunset outside the window and smiled slightly. Leaving the wrong past, I met myself again, a better, stronger and freer version. One year later. In early summer, the wind carries gentle warmth through every street corner. I stepped out of the gym, my forehead covered in sweat, feeling like my body had just awakened after a full workout. Drinking the last sip of water, I felt relieved, as if all the pressure was gone with each punch. During the past year, I come here almost every week for a few sessions, boxing is no longer a choice but has become a part of life. It not only helps me know how to protect myself, but also regenerates my spirit, making me clearly understand the feeling of controlling my life with my own hands. I like the feeling of sweat soaking my shirt, each muscle tensing, each punch carrying power and liberation. Just like every time I wave my hand, I confirm that I am living a real life, living proactively, living a life that is no longer determined by anyone.

“Khuong Hoa.”

A warm male voice rang out from behind. I'm back. It's Tham Muc. A friend you met at the gym. He wears black sportswear, has a tall figure, and his eyes are bright and clean like an early summer morning. He is a partner in a law office, a few years older than me, and we met at a random training session. That day, my opponent suddenly took a break, the coach let him replace him, and I didn't expect that calm-looking person to strike so sharply. We fought a good fight, no one gave in, and from then on we knew each other without even realizing it. Practice together, exchange techniques, sometimes after practice we go out to eat late at night, talking about everything in the world. He is the type of person who makes others feel comfortable, understanding, humorous and knows how to keep a proper distance. With you, I always feel light.

“Are you done?” he asked, handing me a bottle of cool water.

“Yeah, you too?” I took it and smiled lightly.

“There was a bit of a mess recently, so I came here to relieve some stress.”