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A New Beginning
After that, I began to trust Sam completely. He became my confidant, a friend, and a mentor. Patiently, he listened to my problems and guided me toward solutions. Whenever I needed someone to talk to, he was there. When schoolwork overwhelmed me, he provided the information I needed. But beyond academics, Sam taught me something far more crucial: how to keep myself safe.
He assured me that the distrustful glances from others stemmed from fear of my abilities. “People are afraid of what you can do,” he’d say. “Give it time, and you’ll adjust.”
One day, I decided to reveal my darkest secret: Finn Black’s malevolence. Sam’s response shocked me. “You’re lucky you met me,” he said. “Finn Black is a demon, the devil itself. He’d have killed you.”
Tears flowed as I grappled with the revelation. Should I leave school? But Sam convinced me to stay. “I’ll protect you,” he promised.
“How?” I asked.
“I’ve taken care of everything,” he replied. “No one will bother you anymore.”
That night, I cried, knowing Sam’s unwavering support awaited me the next morning. We talked about everything—the past, the future, and survival. Sam imparted life lessons, teaching me how to be alone without loneliness. He even showed me practical skills: reading newspapers, using computers, and driving.
“Thank you,” I said. “I won’t disappoint you.”
“You don’t need to thank me,” he replied. “This is what I’m here for.”
He hugged me, and for a moment, I thought he’d kiss me. Instead, his lips brushed my cheek. “Now you’re ready to leave your old life behind,” he whispered. “Wish you luck in finding a new home. Stay on the right side of the law.”
Later that year, I enrolled at Miskatonic State University, a small liberal arts college. I wanted to hide from civilization, far away from Sam. My chosen path: architecture. But uninspiring classes made me consider dropping out—until I met Dr. Alan Masters, a charming professor. He spoke passionately about design, aesthetics, and the integration of art into everyday objects.
One day, after class, he looked troubled. “I’m losing my job,” he confessed. “The dean got fired.”
“Can’t you find another job?” I asked.
“Not yet,” he replied. “But maybe we can work together.”
His invitation surprised me. “Do you have any pets?” he asked.
“No,” I said. “Never had time.”
“Interested in a dog?” he asked. “I rescued one—a little mutt named Oscar. Would you like to meet him?”e
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Humored by his kindness, I nodded. “Of course.”
