This is exactly what I feared. No matter where I hide, Grandpa Williams always finds me. Why do I have to be the only child? I wish I had a sibling to share the burden. I wanted to call Mom to confirm if Grandpa had indeed discovered where I was, but I was scared she might be with him or Dad. I wanted to scream out of frustration. Seven months—I thought my life had finally quieted down. But now, my anxiety is back. I just hope Grandpa’s chosen groom for me also doesn’t want this arranged marriage. Maybe we could work together to resist it.
The next morning, I woke up early, my body slightly aching. I stretched my arms upward before heading to the bathroom. I took a quick shower and then put on the same clothes, giving them a quick sniff to make sure they didn’t smell.
A few moments later, I stepped outside. The surroundings were now bright. The heavy rain had stopped, and I realized I had fallen asleep out of exhaustion. I headed to the hotel’s snack and café area. Despite its small size, the hotel had a mini bar.
As I approached, I saw *him*—Arlo—seriously drinking coffee. He was sitting with his legs crossed, making the plastic chair look tiny compared to his long legs. He looked like a hot model holding a blue mug.
“Lily, my Lily!” someone shouted loudly, pulling me out of my thoughts.
When I turned, it was Ben, carrying a paper bag. I was sure Violet had sent him.
“Ben, what are you doing here? And what’s with the ‘beautiful’—do you think you’re my boyfriend?” I said, rolling my eyes. He just shook his head.
“Violet told me to bring you some clothes since you couldn’t go home because of the heavy rain,” he said cheerfully, handing me the paper bag.
“Thank you,” I said, smiling as he held onto my arm.
I invited him to have coffee at the snack area, but he declined, saying he needed to get back to driving his car because some students were waiting for him. After saying goodbye, I slowly made my way to the café, but Arlo was no longer there.
“Where could he have gone?” I wondered.
“Lily!” Ben called again.
“Ben, why are you shouting? You might wake up the other guests. Be quiet,” I scolded him.
“Sorry. Violet told me to let you know not to go home yet. There were four men talking to Violet when she handed me your clothes. Who are they?” he asked, puzzled.
“It’s a long story, Ben. Please, if anyone asks about me, don’t tell them I’m here,” I pleaded, and he nodded repeatedly.
Instead of buying something to eat and drink, I went back to my station. I sat down, trying to think of what to do next. I was afraid others might get involved because of me. I know Grandpa Williams won’t stop until I give in to his demands.
