My New Eyes Can See Through Clothes

The leather seats of the luxurious car were cool against Jack's back as he settled in, the weight of the pendant still heavy in his pocket. He glanced sideways at Liana, who sat next to her daughter, Ellie, who was already dozing off, her small head resting against her mother's arm. Jack tried to focus on the calmness of the scene, but his mind kept circling back to everything that had just transpired.

The car started moving smoothly, the engine purring softly as they pulled away from the quite scene they had left behind. Liana's gaze turned to Jack, her expression thoughtful. "So, where should I drop you off once we reach Marin City?" she asked quietly, careful not to wake Ellie.

Jack glanced out the tinted window, watching the city lights blur as the car picked up speed. "I don't really have a specific place in mind," he admitted, keeping his voice low. "I walked out from a village a while back… and I was planning to settle in Marin City. For now, I'll probably just stay at a hotel until I find a permanent place."

Liana's brow furrowed slightly. There was something about the way he spoke—something guarded, as if he was hiding something. But she didn't press further. Instead, she offered a small, kind smile.

"I see," she murmured. "If that's the case, I can arrange a hotel for you. It's the least I can do."

Jack hesitated, but considering everything that had happened… Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. He could use some time to rest and figure out what to do next. "That would be helpful," he said finally. "Thank you."

Liana's smile widened, a look of satisfaction crossing her face. "Good. I'll make sure you're comfortable for a few days, at least."

The car continued down the highway, the cityscape gradually giving way to open roads lined with trees and small businesses. Jack leaned back, allowing himself to relax for the first time in what felt like hours. The tension in his muscles slowly ebbed away as the hum of the car's engine lulled him into a state of quiet contemplation.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Liana's grip tighten on the steering wheel. Her knuckles turned white, and her gaze became distant, lost in thought. It wasn't the same calm, controlled expression she'd had earlier—it was more intense, as if she were wrestling with some internal struggle.

"Something on your mind?" Jack asked softly, breaking the silence. He wasn't sure why he cared, but there was something about the sudden shift in her demeanor that made him curious.

Liana blinked, her gaze snapping back to him. For a moment, she seemed surprised, as if she hadn't expected him to notice. Then she let out a small, rueful laugh. "Just thinking about someone," she murmured. "Someone else I wanted to help a long time ago. But it didn't quite work out the way I wanted."

Jack remained silent, sensing that she wasn't done. He turned his attention to Ellie's peaceful face, wondering what kind of person her mother really was.

"There was this girl," Liana continued, her voice softer now. "She saved my life, much like you did for Ellie. She came out of nowhere, pushed me out of harm's way, and disappeared before I could thank her properly. When I finally tracked her down, I found out that she came from a very poor family. Her mother was sick—dying, actually. I wanted to help, to give them money, anything they needed. But that girl… she refused everything."

"Refused?" Jack repeated, surprised. "Why?"

"She was proud. Stubborn, really. She didn't want to accept charity, even though her family was suffering." Liana shook her head, a hint of frustration coloring her tone. "In the end, I set up a charity foundation that provides free medical treatment to people in need. That was the only way I could think of to help without offending her pride. Her mother accepted the offer, thankfully."

Jack raised an eyebrow, studying her. "So, did it work out?"

"It did," Liana replied, though there was a faint edge of bitterness in her voice. "But I still get angry whenever I think about that girl. If she'd just accepted my help directly, her mother wouldn't have had to go through so much pain. I'm not even sure if the girl herself ever came in for treatment. She was too stubborn." She glanced at Jack, her gaze piercing. "You're different. You're not refusing my help."

Jack gave a small, humorless smile. "I'm not in a position to refuse, am I?" He shrugged. "Besides, I appreciate what you're offering. I'm not going to be stubborn and make things difficult."

Liana's expression softened, and she nodded approvingly. "Good. That's what I like to hear."

The car fell silent again, save for the soft snores of the sleeping child. Jack turned his attention back to the window, watching the dark shapes of buildings and trees flicker past. He thought about telling Liana the truth—that he hadn't just walked out of a village. That he'd been kidnapped, tortured, and left for dead, then she might help him get justice. But he pushed the thought away. There was no need to burden her with this, He didn't even know her, and don't even know that can she help him? Moreover his eyes somehow came back, he need to keep this secret and besides, she'd already done enough for him.

They drove for a while longer, exchanging only a few words here and there. Liana asked him about his plans in Marin City, and Jack gave vague, noncommittal answers. He mentioned that he was hoping to find work and settle down, but he didn't offer any more details. Liana seemed satisfied with his responses, though he could tell she was still curious.

Finally, they arrived at the hotel—a tall, elegant building with gleaming windows and a grand entrance. The car pulled up to the front, and one of Liana's men stepped out to open the door for Jack. He slid out of the seat, taking a moment to stretch his stiff muscles.

"Thank you," he said, turning to Liana. "For everything. I really appreciate it."

Liana smiled warmly. "It's the least I can do. You saved my daughter's life, Jack. I owe you more than just a hotel room."

Jack glanced at Ellie, who was still asleep, her tiny chest rising and falling with each gentle breath. He couldn't help but smile softly. "She's a good and cute kid. You probably love her a lot."

"Yes,," Liana replied, her eyes softening as she looked at her daughter. Then she reached into her coat pocket and pulled out a small card, handing it to Jack. "Here. This has my number. If you ever need anything—anything at all—don't hesitate to call me."

Jack took the card, studying it for a moment before slipping it into his pocket. "I'll keep that in mind. Thanks again."

Liana's smile widened, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "No need to thank me, Jack. You're a lifesaver, remember?"

He chuckled softly. "Right." He turned and took a few steps toward the hotel entrance, but then paused, glancing back over his shoulder. "And… if you ever need someone to babysit Ellie, give me a call. I could use the extra credits."

Liana's laughter rang out, clear and genuine, as she shook her head. "I'll keep that in mind."

With a final wave, Jack turned and made his way into the hotel. He didn't look back this time, as he stepped through the doors and into the lobby.