Chapter 8

Chapter 8

I spent the entire day organizing Troy's house while he was away, and I believe I did a good job because his house looked very different from when I first arrived. I even picked flowers from the outside so we could add some decorations inside. I placed a vase of flowers on the center table in the living area, which helped alleviate my worries.

I know that from now on, things will not be easy. I have to adapt to the way people live here in Tyreese. I need to prove to my brother that I am capable of doing things on my own, without his help or anyone in the palace. While I was reheating the leftover food, the front door opened and I was taken aback to see Troy. Our eyes immediately met. I can't decide what I like more about him - his tired appearance, messy hair, and dark eyes, or his serious yet playful demeanor. I couldn't believe someone could still look so handsome even with disheveled hair.

I was the first to break eye contact because I couldn't handle the intensity of his gaze at that moment. "Oh... I warmed up our leftover food. Is this enough for dinner tonight?" I asked, pretending to be busy in the kitchen. I sensed him entering the living area. I was surprised when I felt him standing behind me and placing a paper bag on the counter. I quickly moved away, realizing how close we were. He raised an eyebrow at me, and I looked away, trying to act like it was nothing.

"I bought dinner," he said in a low tone. I nodded and took the paper bag. "Then, I'll prepare it now," I replied, turning away from him to focus on the dishes. I couldn't concentrate properly because I could sense that he was still standing in the same spot where I left him. "So... you decorated my house," he commented. I became nervous. Did he not like it? Would he scold me again?

"I... was bored... but if you don't want it, I'll just remove it," I said as I placed the dishes on the table. "I didn't say I didn't like it. Actually, I really like it. I've never seen my house like this before. It's nice keeping you here, isn't it?" he said playfully. My lips parted and I looked at him. He raised an eyebrow at me and a smirk played on his lips. What did he just say? Keep me here? Why does my heart race when he says things like that? Why am I reacting so strangely?

"K-Keep me here? If... you think I'll let you trap me or control me, you're mistaken!" I nervously replied. He chuckled and walked to the table, sitting down in his usual spot. "Trap you? If you think staying here is trapping, maybe you should expand your vocabulary," he said, grabbing food for his plate. I glared at him and sat across from him. Quietly, I took some food. I noticed that he seemed very hungry, eating bite after bite. It made me wonder if construction work is difficult. I honestly have no idea what construction work entails. I only know that it involves building houses and is considered a lower-cost job.

"So... you worked all day?" I asked, breaking the silence between us. "Yes," he replied, busy with his meal. "You're working as a construction worker, right? I thought that in order for me to learn to be independent, I should find a job like yours. Can you help me get into construction?" I inquired. He stopped eating and stared at me. Our eyebrows furrowed as he continued staring. He tilted his head, his eyes filled with amusement, which I couldn't comprehend. What is it now?

"Do not tell me you're not familiar with what construction work is," he spoke with a tone full of contempt. I clenched my teeth in frustration.

"I-I know! It's a job that involves building houses and is considered a low-cost job! I believe I can do that! Include me in your work!" I insisted. He chuckled, shaking his head. "What?" I asked, irritated. I was being serious, yet he seemed to find it amusing.

"Where on earth are you from? You don't even have a clear understanding of what construction work entails. Yes, it's a job related to building houses and is considered a low-cost job, but it is not suitable for someone like you, a woman. That job requires lifting heavy blocks and working with cement and rocks. It's a physically demanding job," he said, clearly amused. I blinked, processing his words. Is that really what construction work is all about? I swallowed hard.

"W-Well then... I'll find a job that suits me!" I stated defiantly and continued eating. Damn it! I'm afraid that if I say anything else, I'll be completely shut down. Troy doesn't seem foolish or easily fooled. I know I can't deceive him for long, so I have to leave as soon as possible. I need to learn to be independent promptly!

"How? You don't even have the necessary requirements," he commented, still focused on his meal. Requirements? I stared at him, and he quickly noticed my gaze. He smirked. "Requirements are documents that provide information about you, such as your background, identity, and place of origin," he explained. I felt a chill run through me. I had no idea that I needed such papers! Is that even necessary?!

"Is it crucial for securing employment?" I inquired. He affirmed with a nod, causing a shiver to run down my spine. How am I supposed to find work if I lack the necessary requirements he spoke of? I can't disclose my identity or provide any background information! This is ridiculous!

"Is there a problem?" he asked, noticing my sudden silence. I couldn't bring myself to meet his gaze. Obviously, I couldn't confess that I didn't possess any of the requirements he mentioned!

"N-Nothing... I was just contemplating how to obtain the necessary documents from my mother," I lied, attempting to conceal my true thoughts. "Is that so?" I detected a hint of mockery, but I brushed it off and pretended to be engrossed in my meal. This can't be happening! Am I going to be trapped in Troy's house forever? No way! I must find a solution! I believe there must be a way out of this situation!