chapter 9

Chapter 9

I have loved mystery and detective stories since I was a child, and once dreamed of entering the police academy to become a detective.

In 1997, I was 17 years old and took the college entrance examination. The moment I put down my pen was the closest I ever got to my dream.

But then, an unexpected event occurred.

Because a direct relative committed a serious crime, I could not become a police officer. So my father said to me, “Son, I have to die.”

In fact, the day after the college entrance exam ended, I went to find my father.

My home is in the mountains, surrounded by endless ranges. Since I was little, my father would take me hiking, teach me about the plants on the mountain, and catch lizards and frogs for me. So my hobby of keeping reptiles has its roots.

We even carved out a special path up the mountain, just for the two of us-a thrilling and fun route.

As if guided by fate, after two anxious days searching for my father with no results, a sudden inspiration struck me: I remembered that mountain path.

I hurried up the trail, and sure enough, found my father at the edge of a cliff.

After sending me into the exam room, he had come here alone, sitting in silence for a whole day without eating or drinking. He wanted to end his life, but was also afraid.

Confused, I cried and asked him, “Why, Dad?”

My father cried too. He revealed to me the secret he had buried deep in his heart for many years.