After the Rescue

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The morning breeze was cool, and a thin mist shrouded the world. There were few vehicles on the mountain road; the chirping of insects and calls of birds mingled with the gentle rustling of grass, painting a scene of nature’s tranquil harmony.

Yin Nian could no longer recall the last time she had gone on an outing with her son. Glancing at the rearview mirror, she caught sight of Yangyang sitting in the back seat. At six years old, he gazed silently out the window, his face devoid of any excitement or joy about the trip. The true purpose behind this sudden excursion eluded him; to him, it was simply a dull and tedious affair.

“Yangyang, there are only ten days left before school starts. Is there a gift you’d like? Mommy can buy it for you.” Yin Nian tried to engage her son in conversation. She had made several attempts during the drive, but he had not responded enthusiastically.

“Nothing,” Yangyang murmured, still staring outside, his long lashes fluttering once.

“Are you hungry?” Yin Nian changed the subject. “We’ll be there in about half an hour. Once we arrive, we’ll set up camp and have breakfast, all right?”

“That’s fine.” Yangyang’s attention was caught by a dewdrop on the window.

“Yangyang... Mommy wants to ask you something.” There was a hint of inexplicable nervousness in Yin Nian’s voice.

“What is it?” Yangyang turned his head, looking into the rearview mirror. Their eyes met through the glass.

“Two years ago, Mommy—” She had only just begun when, suddenly, she saw a dark object lying ahead on th