Paying It Forward の小説・ストーリー

“She'll find out, later, after I sort things out for her.” “And you think she will thank you later?” Aaron shook his head and smiled. “It is not about giving and gratitude. It's about debt paid, Aamber. And there is never anyone who is obliged to be grateful for the debt that has been paid. There is, it is the person in debt who is obliged to say thank you.”

“Did you pay for it? Then it’s your gift?” “Of course I paid! It’s a gift for Mommy! Grandma, from today on, I’ll pay you back for this gift with my pocket money every day. Until it’s paid off, I won’t spend any pocket money!” Evander: “… Who gives you pocket money? How is it yours…” “It’s okay, I give it to Zoe. We don’t use Daddy’s!”

Everyone was bustling about, and no one noticed that I had just awakened. I looked up and caught sight of the wall clock. Only one hour remained before I would have to return to the future. On the small hospital TV, they were replaying footage of last night's once-in-a-century meteor shower. The shooting stars were beautiful, but unfortunately, I had missed them again. Indeed, it seemed my wishes were destined to remain unfulfilled. I was lost in thought until footsteps approached, followed by Sophia's tired yet joyful voice. "You're awake. Ethan has regained consciousness too, thanks to your timely blood donation last night."

That person, of course, was Amy. I shook as I opened my laptop and looked up Adam's financial history. He owned a fur trading business called ‘Moon's Embrace’ up in the snowy north. Every single gift he had ever given me—the pendant with a wolf's tooth, the bracelet made of vines, and the cloak of wolf fur—was listed as part of his company's inventory. I used to think those gifts were special and just for me. That was until I peeked at Amy's social media and saw fancier versions of everything he had ever given me.

🌸 Monday at the New Space The center smelled like fresh paint and new possibilities as Minnie settled into the morning routine—emails, updates to donors, and thanking her small team for their help. By midday, something shifted: she’d raised enough to fund the center for five years. Enough to rebuild, rehire, and finally feel secure. Social media lit up with supportive posts—people praising her bravery, hailing the gala as a turning point. Even a few articles calling Lulu a “bully” and “opportunist.” It should’ve made her feel powerful… but it just made her feel hollower.

Even though I knew she didn't blame me, I still carried the guilt of not being able to save her. As if she could read my thoughts, she looked into my eyes and said softly, "Keep moving forward. Don't look back." When I woke up, the morning sun was shining brightly outside my window. At that moment, I knew my future was just beginning. I would always remember Mom's words—keep moving forward. Never look back.

"Even if there had been a puddle of water on the floor, you should've been able to spot it, right? There are plenty of puddles out on the streets all the time. Does that mean you go around demanding compensation from everyone?" Infuriated that she didn't get the response she wanted, Lisa lashed out at us. "Does this mean you three aren't going to pay up?" Just barely containing my laughter, I typed out my reply. "Is it that obvious?" I exited the chat group before Lisa could respond. Rose and Ivy returned to our dorm room soon after. When they saw me, they couldn't resist grumbling about what happened. "Lisa probably sees nothing but dollar signs in everything! She called that an injury, huh

"I'll pay you back." "You don't have to; we're childhood friends. I'd do anything for you." "But you need the money to pay off your student loans; I insist I'll pay you back." Jack let out a soft, resigned laugh. "You can't help it, can you? You don't like receiving help. Alright, kiddo, see you when I see you. Bye." "Thank you, Jack. I appreciate you so much. I promise I'll pay you back." "Okay then," Jack said as he ended the call.

I digest all that has happened but most of all - Micah has just paid off my father’s surgery fee! I can’t stop the feeling of gratitude that takes over me. I am definitely afraid of him and I don’t know what his motives are. Yet, whatever his reasons for helping me, he has made me feel like a big load has gotten off my shoulders. “Thank you. Thank you so much.” I rush out the words. “I will pay you back as soon as possible. I promise. I can’t tell you how grateful I am.” Micah looks at me a beat too long and then shrugs.

I wanted to run my fingers over the keys and hear the melody come to life and fill the cottage with beautiful music. "It doesn't matter what it costs, Ro. I brought it here so that you can start paying me back. I told you, this is how you're going to pay me back, remember?" "I am confused," I admitted. "How is buying me another gift helping me pay you back?"