Chapter 1 {Innocent}

"Alisha, come here this instant! What in the world are you up to?" a lady's voice resounded through the house.

Alisha's excitement reverberated as she shouted back, "I'm coming, Mother Mary."

As an orphan, Alisha always affectionately referred to Mary as her mother, for Mary had showered her with love and care, treating her as her own flesh and blood.

"Hurry, my dear. Today is your first day of college!" Mary's voice resonated once again, urging Alisha.

"I'm on my way! Just give me a moment!" Alisha swiftly responded.

Adorned in a cute pair of shorts, a matching crop top, and denim shoes, Alisha descended the stairs and inquired, "Mother Mary, who were you shouting at?"

Mary scolded her, "You little rascal! You're going to be late!"

Curious, Alisha asked, "What does 'rascal' mean, Mother?"

Deep in her thoughts, Mary sighed and prayed, "This child is so innocent, may God protect her from the cruelties of the world."

"Nothing, my dear. Just drink this juice!" Mary replied.

Alisha made a peculiar face and protested, "Juice? Mother! You know I detest it!"

Mary stood her ground, saying, "Regardless of your preferences, you must drink it."

With haste, Alisha exclaimed, "I apologize, Mother, but I must hurry! I don't want to be late!" And with that, she rushed out of the house.

Mary let out a sigh, contemplating, "This child is far too innocent for this world. She has the power to brighten everyone's lives. I hope no one casts a shadow upon her."

After some time, she arrived at college with her joy-filled face, obtained her class schedule from the office, and entered her first class.

As evening descended, Alisha returned to the orphanage after completing all her classes. She called out with excitement, "Mother Mary, where are you?"

Mary's voice echoed in response, "Welcome back home, my dear! How was your first day?"

Alisha embraced her tightly and replied, "It was wonderful, Mother Mary. However, all the boys in my college treat me like an outsider. As if I am some kind of alien."

Mary thought to herself, "Oh, my dear child, so innocent and unaware of your own beauty."

"Don't worry about them! You know Lucky, our beloved pet, missed you dearly!" Gazing at Alisha, she said.

A smile graced Alisha's face as she exclaimed, "Where is my Lucky? It's time for our walk!"

A white dog approached and affectionately hugged Alisha's leg.

"He adores you, Alisha," Mary remarked.

Alisha responded, "Yes, Mother." She then took Lucky outside for their walk, their bond unbreakable.

"Please stop," Alisha screamed while running.

In the darkness of the night, Lucky had managed to slip away from her within just a few minutes of them coming out for a walk, leaving her searching desperately for him. She stepped outside, hoping to catch a breath of fresh air and perhaps catch a glimpse of her mischievous companion. But luck seemed to have abandoned her, as he remained elusive.

Lost in the vastness of the surroundings, far from the safety of her orphanage, she wandered for what felt like an eternity. The pitch-black night offered no solace, only deepening her sense of unease.

Then, a glimmer of hope flickered within her. She spotted Lucky in someone's garden, a small ray of light in the darkness.

Alisha mustered the courage to trespass into the garden, skillfully evading the watchful eyes of the guard.

She stood on the threshold, contemplating whether to venture further, conflicting thoughts racing through her mind. Her mother had always taught her to respect others' property and seek permission before entering. Yet, the urgency to find Lucky outweighed her hesitation. With a mix of trepidation and determination, she made the decision to enter the house.

The sight that greeted her eyes left her in awe. The house was a marvel of beauty, its elegance captivating her senses. But there was no time to marvel at her surroundings. Lucky had darted upstairs, and she knew she had to follow.

With a burst of energy, she raced up the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest.

"There you are."