No Way Out (Squidgame s2 x child reader)

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Guys... 2k reads?! I didn't think this would actually be that good 😅... Nonetheless THANK YOU!!! unfortunately tomorrow I probably won't be able to post my daily chapters since I'll be on a plane! So Enjoy this chapter and I promise to see you soon!!!! 

As soon as we convinced the guard to let us go, we hurried into the bathroom. 149 and 120 had come with me and Jun-hee, though I wasn't sure if they actually needed to go or if they just didn't want us walking alone. Either way, I was grateful for the company, even if I didn't say it out loud.

I stepped into the stall across from Jun-hee, locking the door behind me. The cold metal felt harsh against my fingers, grounding me for a moment. I let out a slow breath, trying to steady myself. My mind was still reeling from everything that had happened, but there was something about being in a small, enclosed space that made it easier to breathe—at least for now.

As I sat there, I could hear 149's voice through the thin walls. She was talking to Jun-hee, her tone surprisingly gentle. The memory of what she said on the stairs on our way to the bathroom echoed in my head. 

"What parents? I have no parents

I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms. That hit harder than I wanted to admit.

Because soon, I wouldn't have a parent either.

I never had a father—just a ghost of a man who left before I could even remember which shoe went on what foot. But my mother... she was all I had. And now, as I sat in this freezing metal box, I had no idea if she was even still alive. The thought made my throat burn with the kind of pain you get right before crying.

But I couldn't cry.

I wouldn't cry.

I had to stay positive. I had to. If not me, then who?

I forced a smile onto my face, even though no one could see me. It helped, just for a second. But then the ache returned, settling deep in my chest like a weight I couldn't shake.

I ripped some tissues from the dispenser, pressing them against my eyes, forcing the tears back. I bit down on the inside of my cheek, muffling the sob that threatened to escape. No, not here. Not now.

Taking a deep breath, I unlocked the door and stepped out. The fluorescent lights flickered slightly, casting everything in an eerie glow.

Jun-hee still hadn't come out.

I frowned, walking over to the sinks. 149 was already at her stall, knocking lightly. "Are you okay?"

I could hear her sniffle before she spoke.

"Yeah... just give me a second."

I smiled bitterly, staring at my reflection in the mirror. My own eyes were red-rimmed, my face paler than usual.

Why did her words hurt so much? They weren't directed at me, they weren't meant to sting—but they did.

I clenched my jaw, gripping the edges of the sink as 149 gently pushed the door open.

Jun-hee stood inside, her head bowed, her hands shaking. Tears streaked her face, fresh and raw.

149 crouched in front of her, concern evident in her expression. "Did you get hurt? Are you cramping? Is it your stomach?" she asked softly, yet worry filled her voice and face.

Jun-hee shook as tears trickled down her face.

Then, in a small, broken voice, she mumbled—

"I'm scared."