Part-6 I am like Aurora

Ariana's POV:

I stared at Mr. Fierce's photo in the business magazine and skimmed through some lines from his interview. "Tedious," I muttered, tossing the magazine onto the mattress and yawning.

There was nothing in that magazine that intrigued me enough to read further about him. It was the same old story about the pressures he faced to carry on his family legacy, dealing with family controversies, his take on competition, what he likes, and what he dislikes. What is his opinion on love,sex, and marriage? Who was he his first crush and what is his philosophy of life?

I decided not to strain my eyes any further with it. Truth be told, I wasn't interested in knowing more about him. Why should I be? It’s not like I’m going to meet him again. Or Perhaps would I?

Let's not think much.

But I had to admit, seeing his picture in the publication did make him look like a prominent businessman. Not that I cared much about reading business magazines, but I had once read the 5th edition due to my parents' interview, which was published there. It made me feel proud and sophisticated. However, I cursed myself for leaving that edition at my uncle's place. Thinking about it also brought back some bitter "what-if" scenarios.

What if I got married today? Or became a scapegoat? The thought of both scenarios sent chills down my spine.

But can I marry someone who can protect me?

As tempting as it sounded to consider marriage as a means of survival, I knew I couldn't rush into such a life-changing decision. I needed to think things through, weigh the pros and cons, and ensure that it was the right choice for me.

I wished my parents were still alive, so I wouldn't have to run like this or think about such things , and I could avoid the agony I went through. To those who know me, I might seem like Aurora, but behind those closed doors, I was like Cinderella.

I shuddered at the memories of the hardships I endured. I couldn't push myself into that trauma again. So, I steadied myself and focused on where I was.

"It's okay, Ari. You are fine and safe from them," I mumbled, wiping my cheeks which had become wet with tears. I didn't even realise I was crying. I decided not to think about the past for now and concentrate on planning for my future.

Firstly, I needed to find a decent place to live, somewhere where no one knows me as Gray. Secondly, I wanted to get a job at some firm. I had completed my MBA from a good university and even interned at Daniel's company, which ranks 3rd in the USA. However, that was two years ago, and I lacked any work experience. My aunt and uncle prevented me from taking a job that was offered to me, fearing that I might overtake their business, which once belonged to my parents. Despite my insistence, they made me sit at home and pretend to be Aurora at parties. They treated me worse than anyone can even imagine.

My simple ambition was to stand on my own feet and be away from my foster family's clutches. But they had started to snatch that away too. I accepted whatever they asked of me, but marriage was too much. So, I ran away, hoping to achieve success on my own terms.

A glimmer of hope and excitement filled me as I envisioned a future where I would have my own place, a dog, and maybe even a boyfriend who would pamper me. But I knew I had to stop daydreaming and focus on the task at hand.

I checked my watch and realised that Mr. Fierce hadn't returned yet. When would he come with my bag? Please come fast.

Feeling suffocated in the room, I decided to step outside and also wanted to look for him. As I reached the courtyard, my eyes widened in shock when I saw Ryder.

"What is he doing here?" I asked myself, wiping my sweat and steadying myself against the wall to stop my knees from trembling.

Controversy! That word echoed in my mind, as wherever I went for business parties, he was always there, leering at everyone to get some juicy bytes. I remembered what Joseph had told me one day.

"Ryder has the power to turn any random event into a trendy story. In other words, he can make a mountain out of a molehill. So, be careful not to cross paths with him, or you might become his scapegoat."

"Are you sure Ms. Ariana Gray is here?" What? Until now, I feared Ryder for his profession, but he was here for me. I couldn't let him get the upper hand. I needed to do something to avoid him.

"Chill," I told myself, trying to calm my nerves and think clearly. What could I do to avoid him? How could I blend in and not draw attention to myself?

My mind raced for a plan, and then I remembered Aiden’s wallet. No, I couldn't take his money, but then I convinced myself that he was a wealthy businessman, and a few dollars wouldn't matter to him. In exchange, he could take mine. I took some money from his wallet and quickly wrote a note.

I didn't know exactly what I had written or how he would react, but one thing was certain - if I stayed here, not only would I be in trouble, but he would be too. He would not only insult me but unleash his anger, which would be justified and unavoidable. So I kept note there and took a deep breath closing my eyes.

I went outside and started walking in the opposite direction of the reception, hoping to find another exit. The main exit was not an option for me, but I knew that in such places, there could be other ways out.

As I stepped out into the backyard, a sense of relief washed over me. My instincts had been right; there was indeed an exit here. I felt a glimmer of hope that my luck might be turning around, and I was grateful for this small blessing.

The cool breeze brushed against my face, and I took a moment to savor the feeling of freedom. This path was taking me one step closer to my dreams of independence and a fresh start. I felt determined to embrace this opportunity and make the most of it.

As I walked along the narrow path, I couldn't help but let my mind wander. I imagined a life where I could be truly free, away from the clutches of my foster family and the pain of my past. A life where I could build my career, find true friends, and maybe even fall in love on my terms.

The path ahead was unknown, but I was ready to face whatever challenges came my way. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to keep moving forward. I had to believe in myself and my abilities to make my dreams a reality.

Along the way, I passed by a small park, and a group of children caught my attention. They were playing and laughing, their innocence and joy a stark contrast to the life I had lived. I couldn't help but smile at the sight, reminded of the simple pleasures I had missed out on.

As I continued on my journey, I made a mental list of the things I needed to do. Finding a job was a top priority. I would have to be resourceful and persistent in my job search, but I was confident that my education and determination would open doors for me.

Next, I needed to find a place to stay. It had to be affordable and safe, somewhere I could build a sense of belonging. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was willing to put in the effort to make it happen.

As I reached the end of the path, I felt a mix of emotions. Excitement, uncertainty, and hope all swirled within me. But above all, I felt a sense of empowerment. I had taken the first step towards my dreams, and I was ready to keep pushing forward.

As I walked into the bustling city, I reminded myself that this was just the beginning. The road ahead might be challenging, but I was not alone. I had myself, my determination, and the belief that I could create a life of my own.

With my head held high and my heart full of hope, I took a deep breath and stepped into the unknown. The journey ahead might be unpredictable, but I was ready to embrace it and make my dreams come true.

And as I walked away from the inn and towards the horizon, I couldn't help but feel that the future held endless possibilities. I was determined to seize them all and create a life that was truly my own.

To be continued.