CHAPTER 5

Uncle Joseph spent some time that morning telling me stories about their lives. I've learned that they also rely on farming for their living, and one of his greatest sources of pride is the fact that they picked and ground the coffee he gave me. They lead a straightforward life.

The only reason I could listen to him tell stories is because he makes me think of my father. We used to sit in a field and tell each other tales while laughing. We were just having fun at that point, so I never once considered losing him. I also never considered that he may genuinely be a werewolf as has been rumoured. 

When Aunt Lany wakes up, she invites me to go with her to the local market. We headed in the direction of the town. Their house is located in front of a muddy lane where Ador, the driver who has helped me, parked. Only after hearing Aunt Lany mention him did I learn his name.

She stated that because they had previously worked on a plantation, they were extremely close friends. She also met Uncle Joseph there. After being married to one other, they made the decision to leave the plantation. She also mentioned that despite their best efforts, the Deities had never permitted them to have children. 

We probably travelled for an hour to get there. Their town seems to be vibrant and modern. Along with many merchants selling various things, there were other people wandering the area. 

In a clothing market, Aunt Lany brought me. “Select whatever you like, Arllette.”

I had a look around; everything seemed inviting, but I was too nervous to even pick out a piece of clothing for myself. She has money, but I don't want to spend it on simply clothing. Although somewhat larger than my size, her previous clothing was more than adequate for me.

“T-There’s no need, Aunt Lany. I am okay with these,”  was referring to the clothes she had given me last night. 

She gave a disapproving head shake.  "Don’t be shy, Arllette. We went here for your clothes,” she said. 

She then started to rummage around for clothing for me. Soon enough, she had some clothes in her hands. She proudly said, "These look good on you," as she showed me the clothes she had chosen. 

She insisted I try those dresses on. A little area with heavy curtains serves as the fitting room at the stall where we were. I was led into that little dressing room by Aunt Lany, who forbade me from declining her offer to purchase my clothing.

Fortunately, the clothing she chose for me suited my size. She added more simple shirts and shorts to the group of items she purchased. Actually, I was too shy to accept those. I made an effort to decline and stop her, but she persisted. She didn't purchase even one for herself or her husband, which further increased my guilt. 

I swear, I will pay for her generosity towards me one day. As I hesitantly received the clothes, I made that promise. 

“Thank you, Aunt Lany,” I said, feeling indebted to her.

"You're thankful for everything. Please treat me like your mother.”

Unable to speak, I bit my lip and nodded. 

We then resumed our walk through the market. She purchased several food items that I bet she has never purchased previously since she periodically becomes surprised whenever she asks for the price. It felt like she was purchasing them for me. Her generosity makes me ashamed since I know I'll need a lot of time to pay for things.

I noticed several eyes were gazing at me while I was moving through the market. It was as though everyone was staring at me. I can also hear some murmurs that I can't quite understand. All of those probably occurred since I'm new to the area. I became much more aware, though, when I noticed a woman gazing at my neck.

That forced me to conceal the area of my right neck where I had experienced a sting that evening. That motion I made was observed by Aunt Lany. I wondered if the bite had fully recovered by this point. This morning, I forgot to check it in the mirror.

She gave me a long look as if she were going to say something but decided against it.

I pouted while attempting to anticipate her next words.

After a while, Aunt Lany finally decided to return home. I assisted her in carrying the items she had purchased. It is the only thing that I could do for now. 

As we walked home, she remained silent. I could see she was contemplating something. She's lost in thinking.

I silently followed her as well. 

“Aunt!” That sudden voice made me jump out of surprise.  

Aunt Lany put her palm on her chest to show that she was astounded by the unexpected voice as well.

“Diether!" She spoke as she gave his shoulder a little slap. "You nearly gave me a heart attack and killed me!", said Aunt Lany.

"I didn't want to startle you...You should have gotten accustomed to it by now," he said, grinning. 

Diether turned and stared at me. He furrowed his brows before grinning. On his left face, a dimple appeared. He's much taller than I am. Although I am only around the height of his shoulder, we are likely close in age. 

“Hey,” he greeted me with that word. He opted to welcome me with that three-letter term rather than any other polite words.

I stared at Aunt Lany, unsure of what to say.

“His family is living close to where we live. You'll see him more frequently," said Aunt Lany.

I gave her a nod. I then gave Diether a little smile.

He grimaced and tried to cover it up. 

After that, we kept on moving. 

“You still haven’t introduced yourself. Do you mind if I ask?” He asks with a hint of enthusiasm in his voice.