Chapter 4

Chapter 4

"Of course not!" I stammered, crossing my arms protectively across my chest to shield it from his invasive gaze. How could he possibly notice that I wasn't wearing a bra? Maybe he's just a pervert who immediately fixates on women's bodies. I glared at him, accusing him of his inappropriate behavior. An annoying smirk remained on his lips, irritating me further.

"You pervert! Why were you staring at my chest?" I spat, full of accusation. He chuckled and leaned back on his messy couch. "Let's just say I have a keen eye," he playfully replied. I clenched my teeth in frustration. Damn him!

"My bra got wet, and I don't have a spare!" I blurted out before growing bored with his antics. He sighed deeply, but the playful glint still lingered in his eyes. I couldn't quite figure him out. "Fine. I'll be the only one who knows," he shrugged nonchalantly. I am so irritated with him. "Let's go now. I still have work," he declared, getting up from his seat.

I followed behind him, observing his back as we walked. As we moved along, I couldn't help but wonder how I would settle into Tyreese. It was my first time being here, and I had no idea where to start or how to make a life for myself.

I am aware of my lack of knowledge and the importance of making wise decisions. However, I never anticipated that it would be this challenging. Upon exiting the forest, I couldn't help but be amazed by the sights before me. Various vehicles traversed the roads, and towering skyscrapers proudly adorned the city skyline. It was truly a spectacle to behold! As Troy and I continued our walk, we encountered more and more people bustling about, each seemingly with a destination in mind.

I observed groups of students sharing boisterous conversations, couples affectionately holding hands, men dressed sharply in suits and ties, and women donning formal yet alluring attire. I could hardly believe that I was now in Tyreese. Turning to Troy, who silently led the way, I knew it was time for me to bid him farewell. If I prolonged our interaction any further, he would surely grow suspicious.

"Troy..." I called out his name, and he turned to face me. Taking a deep breath, I locked eyes with him, his green eyes mirroring the vibrant sky above. Sometimes, I question whether he is truly a good-hearted man or not. However, deep down, I know that he is genuinely kind. Despite occasionally getting on my nerves, he has been a valuable source of help.

"This is the spot where my mother and I were separated, so now I must bid you farewell," I expressed sincerely. "Thank you for welcoming me into your home. I hope to repay your kindness in the future."

His gaze turned serious, and I found myself torn between preferring his serious eyes or his playful ones.

"You're welcome," he nodded. I returned the gesture with a smile and nod of my own. Taking a deep breath, I reluctantly turned my back on him, knowing that this may be our last encounter. From now onwards, I must rely on my own strength and determination. I believe I can overcome any challenges that come my way. However, I can't fathom why my heart feels heavy at the thought of never seeing Troy again. It's not right. I shouldn't be feeling this way. As I continued walking, I couldn't resist looking back toward the spot where I left Troy. My lower lip found its way between my teeth as I observed him also moving away. Swallowing hard, I forced myself to keep moving forward. No matter what, I must keep moving forward.

As I walked, I couldn't help but be awestruck by the towering buildings I passed, the diverse individuals I encountered, and the stark contrast between my world and theirs.

This is a world that has always remained a mystery to me. As I continued my walk, I arrived at a spacious park bustling with activity. The scene was filled with street vendors, couples strolling hand in hand, families enjoying picnics, and groups of friends engrossed in their studies. I couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. I longed for this kind of life, a normal life free from the constraints of royalty or societal expectations. A life of freedom.

Seeking solace, I settled on a bench and observed the people around me. Laughter erupted from within me as I witnessed two girls and boys playfully quarreling over a piece of candy. It brought back memories of my own childhood with my brother.

"Miss?" My thoughts were abruptly interrupted as a man approached me. I blinked, taken aback by his disheveled appearance and the unmistakable scent of alcohol emanating from him. A sense of unease crept over me as he drew nearer. It felt like an unsettling dream. "Um, what do you want?" I asked, attempting to conceal the fear rising within me.

A malicious grin spread across the man's face, a sight that turned my stomach. How could I rid myself of this man? "May I have the pleasure of knowing your name? You are truly beautiful, miss," he sneered. Swallowing hard, my nerves intensified. I had no trust in him; he seemed crude and repulsive, a man who exuded perversion and disgust.

"I'm sorry, but I don't give out my name so easily," I asserted with confidence. The man's unsettling grin only grew more menacing. Stay calm, Elisaria. He can't harm you.

"What? Then... what do you want? Ah, I see... you're after money? I do have some money on me. Does that mean I am now allowed to fuck you?" His words made me furrow my brows in annoyance. I couldn't believe someone would stoop so low. As he approached me, I clenched my teeth. It suddenly dawned on me that the bench I had chosen was quite secluded, far from the presence of others. Even if I were to call for help, no one would hear me.

"Why would I ever allow someone as disgusting and repulsive as you to lay a finger on me?" I spat; my contempt evident. The man's face grew even darker. "You bitch!" he exclaimed, and to my shock, he forcefully grabbed my arm and attempted to pull me towards him. However, I managed to push him away just in time. Before he could make another move, I swiftly ran off, my heart pounding with fear and disbelief. I hardly paid attention to my surroundings as my sole focus was on escaping that place.

The sun beat down fiercely, causing sweat to bead on my body. Thirst and hunger gnawed at me, realizing that my last meal had been the bread at Troy's house.

I was completely drained and exhausted, so much so that when I was about to cross the road, a car suddenly appeared heading straight towards me! It was barreling toward me with alarming speed! In that moment of panic, I felt utterly helpless. Fatigue had taken over, rendering my limbs and body immobile.

Lost in this haze, my eyes caught sight of someone. I couldn't tell if it was just my imagination, but there stood Troy... on the opposite side of the road. Was this the end for me? Was this some kind of karmic retribution for longing for a world that wasn't meant for me? And yet, why, in my final moments, did Troy appear before me? I had only just met him yesterday! I anticipated seeing my brother or perhaps even my deceased parents. So why was it him?

As I gazed into his earnest green eyes, I couldn't believe I still found him attractive despite the dire circumstances. I blinked twice, and as the car screeched closer, I closed my eyes, preparing for the impact. But instead of pain, I felt the warmth of another body against mine. The cacophony of the car's noise ceased. It felt as though someone was carrying me. So, I mustered the courage to open my eyes, fully expecting the end to be upon me. To my astonishment, I was greeted by Troy's mesmerizing green eyes, welcoming me back from the brink.