That Night — The Lin Residence
Mrs. Lin returned home hollow-eyed.
She heard Mr. Lin's voice from the study.
Low. Heavy. Final.
"Son… don't come home." He said on the phone.
Mrs. Lin froze.
The conversation continued, "You left the country young. No one remembers you. Don't let anyone know you're from this family."
Her breath caught.
"Only this way can we protect your future." Mr. Lin stated.
On the other end of the call was William Lin — their only son. Quiet. Talented. Far away.
"Dad," William said urgently, "I've saved money. I can support you. Why don't you come live with me?"
Mrs. Lin covered her mouth as tears spilled.
'One child lost to obsession,' she thought bitterly. 'Another exiled to survive. Is this the price of our greed?'
Mr. Lin closed his eyes.
"No," he said
