23.Helplessness

Summer days continued to pass, filled with laughter and the deepening bond between Qicheng and Yingying.

Yet, beneath the surface of their idyllic friendship, shadows from Yingying's past began to stir.

The increased security around her home was a constant reminder of the dangers lurking in the background.

One afternoon, while they were exploring a new part of town, Yingying received a call from her mother.

"Yingying, you need to come home immediately," her mother's voice was urgent.

"What's wrong, Mom?" Yingying asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

"It's not safe. Just come home quickly," her mother insisted before the call abruptly ended.

Yingying's face paled, and Qicheng noticed immediately.

"What happened? Is everything okay?"

"I... I have to go home," Yingying said, her voice trembling.

"Something's wrong.""I'll come with you," Qicheng offered without hesitation.

They hurried back to Yingying's house, where they were met by a tense atmosphere. Security personnel were on high alert, and Yingying's mother greeted them at the door, her face lined with worry.

"Mom, what's going on?" Yingying asked, fear creeping into her voice.

Her mother glanced at Qicheng, then back at Yingying.

"We received a credible threat. We need to increase security measures."

Yingying's eyes widened.

"But what does that mean? Are we leaving?

Her mother shook her head.

"Not yet, but we must be more cautious. No more going out without protection."

Qicheng stood awkwardly, feeling out of place amidst the tension. Yingying's mother turned to him with a kind but serious expression.

"Qicheng, thank you for bringing Yingying home safely. Please understand that we are doing everything we can to ensure her safety."

"I understand," Qicheng said, his concern for Yingying evident.

"If there's anything I can do to help, please let me know."

Yingying's mother nodded appreciatively. "Your friendship means a lot to her. Just continue being there for her."

As Qicheng left, he felt a growing sense of unease. He wanted to protect Yingying, but he also felt powerless against the forces threatening her.

That night, he lay awake, his mind racing with thoughts of how he could help his friend.