**Chapter 2: Unseen Fears**

The gentle hum of the artificial placenta and the soft rustle of Hange's shirt were the only sounds that broke the silence of our sanctuary. I lay still, my ears tuned to the subtle vibrations of Hange's breathing, a soothing melody that usually calmed my frazzled nerves. But today, my anxiety had other plans. It was a persistent drumbeat in the background of my mind, growing louder with each passing moment. Hange's fingers continued to stroke my hair, a gentle massage that usually helped to calm my hypersensitive skin. But today, even his touch felt like a fragile barrier against the tidal wave of fears that threatened to engulf me. I was scared of being moved from this safe space, of being exposed to the harsh realities of the world outside. As I peeked out from beneath Hange's shirt, I caught a glimpse of the security guards stationed outside our makeshift room. Their stern faces and imposing physiques were a constant reminder of the dangers that lurked outside our little bubble. I shuddered at the thought of facing the world, of being forced to interact with people who didn't understand me, who wouldn't understand my needs. Hange's hand moved, his fingers tracing the contours of my face, a gentle touch that sent shivers down my spine. "I know you're scared, Kobu," he whispered, his voice low and soothing. "But I'll be with you every step of the way. You're not alone." I nodded, a small, almost imperceptible movement, and Hange's smile grew wider. He leaned in, his lips brushing against my forehead in a gentle kiss. The warmth of his breath on my skin sent a wave of calm through my body, and for a moment, my fears receded. But as he pulled back, I caught a glimpse of something in his eyes, a flicker of concern that made my heart skip a beat. "There's something I need to tell you, Kobu," he said, his voice low and serious. My anxiety spiked, and I felt my body tense, my muscles coiling like a spring. What was it? What had he discovered that made him look so worried? I tried to ask, but my voice caught in my throat, and all that emerged was a soft whisper. Hange's eyes locked onto mine, and I felt a jolt of electricity run through my body. "It's about your father," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. My heart stopped. My father. The man who had abandoned me, who had left me to suffer at the hands of his cruel wife. The man who had never come back for me. I felt a wave of emotions swirl through me, a mix of anger, sadness, and fear. Hange's hand moved, his fingers wrapping around mine in a gentle grasp. "What is it?" I managed to whisper, my voice trembling with fear. Hange's eyes searched mine, and I could see the turmoil brewing beneath the surface. "He's been found," he said, his voice low and serious. My world stopped. My father, the man who had abandoned me, was alive. And Hange's expression told me that this revelation was only the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one that I wasn't sure I was ready to face.