Here's the other part of my double-dose chapter release!
In this chapter, we see what has happened in the life of Sae Young, the recovering shut-in. Has she been able to finally conquer her fear of other people?
Chapter Six: To Keep the Door Permanently Ajar
Much time has gone since I first found garden. English has improved a little, but I still have thick accent.
Going out and being around people greatly improved but still worry. Have to quell small anxiety before stepping out. Sometimes I go outside so quickly I do not realize it until I'm there. I wanted way to make myself not be isolated but did not know how. Then acquaintance told me of local group for teenage mothers in garden. I think I recognized them.
Throughout life with husband we try to have children, but none came. Never considered adoption until now.
I matched with local baby born to one of the young mothers. Mother was also part of garden once so that's why her name's Flora. I do not want her to grow up afraid so we go outside quite often, most of time coming to garden.
She got scared of dark as toddler but I comfort by telling her about some of my fears. Talking about fears makes me feel better.
However, it's knowing that I have someone to protect that gives me most courage of all. And because of that, I will not shut the door to myself shut anymore.
Heh, sorry that was super short! I'll try to make the next one longer :O :(
Here is a look at the gardeners so far:
Florence = Died, husband is narrating
Amir = Still continues gardening with his family
Maricela = Grown-up, gave her baby up for adoption
Nora = No longer caring for Mr. Myles (whose deceased), still tends his garden spot
This list will be updated at the very end of the story!
In the next chapter, we'll get a combo of Virgil, son of the would-be lettuce baron, and Ana, the window-watcher!
Staaay tuned...