Chapter 1

Carmen’s POV

I sat heavily on the old couch, feeling overwhelmed by all my problems like a heavy storm. The dirty walls of the apartment I shared with my mom seemed to close in on me, suffocating me with their silent disapproval. It felt like the universe was purposely testing how strong I was by throwing one obstacle after another in my way.

My landlord, who was always impatient and persistent, kept bothering me relentlessly. Every morning, his annoying voice would come through the phone, reminding me of the four months' rent I owed. The threat of being kicked out of my home was always hanging over me like a dark cloud, ready to burst at any moment. The place I used to call my humble home had turned into a battleground, and I was losing the fight against financial instability.

But it wasn't just the landlord that worried me. My job, which used to provide stability, had become a cruel trick of a gun. The small paycheck it gave me barely covered my basic needs, leaving me drowning in unpaid bills and growing debts. It seemed like every effort I made to improve my situation only dragged me further into a pit of hopelessness.

I felt desperate and hungry, reminding me that our pantry was empty. My stomach made loud noises in the quiet apartment, making fun of my situation. I reluctantly went into the small kitchen, where I found a pack of ramen noodles thrown away. It was the last bit of food left in my empty place. I held onto it, hoping it would satisfy my hunger.

As I filled a pot with water, I couldn't help but wonder how I ended up in this situation. The promises of a better future had disappeared, and now I had to focus on surviving. I wasn't sure if I would be able to find food for tomorrow or make my life better.

I lit the stove with shaking hands and watched the flame dance, strangely beautiful. The water started boiling, and I put the ramen noodles in, watching them sink into the bubbling water. The smell of the broth filled the air, bringing back both good and sad memories.

As I stirred the noodles, I wished for something amazing to happen. I wanted a lucky twist that would turn my life around and lead me to redemption. Maybe, buried within my difficulties, there was a good outcome waiting to appear when I least expected it.

But as the ramen noodles cooked and smelled delicious, I realized that hope alone wouldn't satisfy my hunger or fix my broken life. The real miracle, I understood, was in my own determination, strength, and unwavering spirit. Even though the future looked risky and uncertain, I promised myself to keep going, taking it one step at a time, knowing that my journey wasn't finished yet.

For now, I would enjoy the simple noodles, knowing that they represented more than just food, but also my unyielding spirit. Sitting in our rundown apartment, surrounded by reminders of my struggles, I felt a spark of defiance. It was time to rise up and create my own future, despite the challenges.

I felt desperate and anxious as I whispered strong prayers for a miracle before falling asleep. The loud noise of my alarm woke me up exactly at 7 o'clock, and my tired mind struggled to wake up completely. Even though I felt tired and heavy, I knew I had to get out of bed. Today, I had an important appointment that could change my life. I felt a mix of excitement and fear as I hoped for a good outcome.

I quickly dressed in professional clothes: a black turtleneck, white wide-leg pants, and black slip-on shoes. I wanted to look confident and composed. I tied my messy hair into a ponytail and took a moment to check my appearance in the mirror. I nodded, feeling both satisfied and nervous. I put my white bag over my shoulder and made sure I had the files with my carefully prepared portfolios and designs.

I was in a hurry because I didn't have much time, and my fridge was completely empty. I couldn't have breakfast before leaving. I know when I get home, I would feel very hungry. As I was about to open the door, something unexpected happened. My landlord, who is a strict person in his fifties, suddenly appeared in front of me. He looked disapproving. I felt nervous and tried to act cheerful, hiding my anxious feelings.

"Mr. Thomas,"I shouted, trying to sound happy even though I felt really desperate. My landlord looked serious and scared me. But I had to act brave and not show my fears. I had to pretend to be confident, even though it felt like everything could fall apart at any moment.

"I hope your morning was as pleasant as mine, Mr. Thomas," I said it with a shaky voice. He looked at me closely, and I could feel his doubt coming from him strongly. It felt like a dark cloud.

"My money, Miss Carmen," he demanded, his voice cutting through the morning air. The words felt heavy, reminding me of the money I owed and the chance of getting kicked out. I swallowed hard, my throat feeling dry, as I tried to come up with a believable excuse.

Sweat started forming on my forehead as I desperately looked for a solution to this dangerous problem. And then, a bold idea hit me suddenly. I pointed at his bald head, his shaved scalp shining in the sunlight.

"Your new haircut looks so nice on you, bringing out your fully handsome looks," I complimented, but it wasn't sincere. I wanted to make him stop thinking about the money he wanted. But when he looked confused instead of serious, I realized my plan to distract him might have failed.

"Enough with the flattery," he retorted, a mix of annoyance and curiosity in his eyes. "I am here for my money, and I assure you that this time, no amount of your flattery will let me leave without taking what's owed."

His words struck me like a blow, and I struggled to maintain my composure. I had underestimated Mr. Thomas's resolve, and now the walls of my hope seemed to crumble around me. But I couldn't afford to give up.

"Not now, Mr. Thomas," I pleaded, my voice trembling. "I will pay you today, as promised."

The air became tense as he looked at me intensely, seeing through my fake appearance. At that moment, I desperately hoped for something lucky to happen and rescue me from impending disaster. I used all my acting skills to show that I truly felt sorry and regretful.

"It must be settled tonight, or I will throw you out," he warned, his voice laden with finality. I nodded, my heart sinking as I watched him turn away and disappear towards the other tenants' apartments.

As soon as he closed the door behind him, I felt a strong sense of urgency. Tonight was my last opportunity, my final hope to change things for the better. With a determined mindset, I quickly left the apartment, leaving behind the empty promise of breakfast. I had an appointment that could completely transform my life, a small chance amidst all the difficulties.

I had no idea that this appointment held more than just the possibility of changing my life. It had secrets, challenges, and unexpected events waiting for me. Already dressed in my work clothes, I walked out into the busy streets, prepared to face whatever fate had planned for me.

The sun created long shadows across the city as I maneuvered through the crowded sidewalks. I felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The weight of my dreams was heavy on my shoulders, urging me to keep moving. Would this appointment be the key to a better future, or would it end up being another letdown, adding to my growing list of disappointments?

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