A life already planned

As I walked away from the scene with Mr. Gangster, I felt an inexplicable sense of loss. It was as if something significant had slipped away from me in that moment. I couldn't shake the feeling that our mysterious helper had left an indelible mark on my life.

I continued strolling towards my house, lost in thought. My mind wandered back to Mr. Gangster, and I found myself blushing at the realization that I still wanted to see him again.

As I entered my house, I was greeted by an unusual sight: my father sitting in the living room, looking uncharacteristically serious. My mind began racing with possibilities. Why was he home early? And why wasn't he drunk for once?

I pushed aside my concerns and put on a confident face. "Good day, Dad," I said, trying to sound cheerful.

My father looked up at me, his expression unreadable. "My lovely daughter, you're back," he said, his voice dripping with an unsettling warmth.

I sensed something was off. My father never spoke to me like that unless he wanted something.

"Dad, how was your day?" I asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

"Well, my dear, I have some good news for you," he said, his eyes gleaming with an unnerving intensity.

My instincts screamed at me to be cautious. What kind of "good news" could my father possibly have?

"You insisted on graduating before getting married, didn't you?" he asked, his voice dripping with condescension.

I felt a growing sense of unease. Where was this conversation headed?

"Yes, Dad," I replied, trying to keep my tone neutral.

"Well, I think going to school was a great idea. It's increased your chances of finding a better suitor," he said, his words making my skin crawl.

I knew what was coming next.

"My friend's son has just returned from studying abroad, and I've arranged for you two to meet. If he likes you, you'll get married, and our lives will get much better," he said, his voice dripping with excitement.

I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. This was the "good news" he'd been talking about?

A wave of anger and frustration washed over me. Why did my life have to be predetermined by my father's expectations? Why couldn't I make my own choices?

I forced myself to nod, trying not to reveal my true feelings. "Okay, Dad," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

As I turned to leave, I couldn't help but feel like I was walking away from my own dreams and aspirations.

In my room, I let my tears flow freely. Why did I have to live in a world where women were seen as commodities, not individuals with their own agency?

But as I wiped away my tears, I remembered who I was: Stella Hornwell, a strong and determined woman who refused to be held back by societal expectations.

With newfound resolve, I stood up, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead....