No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

The moment I felt the fabric of the dress, I knew it was expensive, yet she handed it to me without hesitation. This gesture stirred a mix of gratitude and guilt within me.

Because, truth be told, I had been scheming against her, yet here she was, genuinely caring for me.

"Ma'am, this dress is too precious. I can't accept it," I declined.

"Oh, don't be silly. It's just a dress," she dismissed my concerns. Her attitude and the way she seemed to let go of material attachments made me feel even guiltier for trying to take advantage of her. But if I didn't, Ernest and I might not have survived.

I stood there, unable to speak or move, just looking at her.

"Is something the matter?" she noticed my unease.

I bit my lip, "Mrs. Clark, my name is Felicia."

She nodded slightly, "I know."

I was taken aback, but she continued, "I've seen your picture before. My son once fancied pursuing you, so naturally, I took an interest. But from your picture, I knew he didn't stand a chance." So that was it.

Seeing her friendly demeanor, I took a deep breath, "Mrs. Clark, I've come to you today seeking your help."

"Well, then, have a seat, and we can talk," she patted the spot next to her.

Before meeting her, I hadn't expected her to be this approachable. I thought she'd be the aloof and cold type.

Without hesitation, I sat down next to her, knowing that proximity can build rapport.

"Ma'am, I'm here to ask for your protection," I didn't beat around the bush and laid out my situation and Ernest's predicament.

Finally, I looked at her earnestly,

"Ma'am, if Mr. Clark and Allen don't get what they want, they'll make me and what they're after disappear. I believe you're the only one who can help me."

By then, she had a string of prayer beads in her hands, her expression unchanged by my revelations.

She wasn't shocked, nor surprised.

So she knew of her husband and son's deeds. Unable to stop them, she sought redemption through prayer.

"I promise you," she said without even asking for details.

"Aren't you curious about how I plan to ensure your protection?" What I needed wasn't just a word with Allen or Lord Clark.

She smiled gently, "I know, and whatever you do is fine by me."

Her readiness unnerved me, and guilt crept in, "Mrs. Clark, I'm truly driven to despair to resort to this."

"I know, no need to explain," in the dimly lit room, her face seemed to glow, almost divinely.

I was at a loss for words, then she asked, "Just let me know when you need me to act."

Her willingness to cooperate so freely made me feel even smaller, "Mrs. Clark..."

"You shouldn't feel burdened. I'm doing this as atonement, hoping to prevent their sins from growing, Mrs. Clark's voice was tinged with melancholy.

I couldn't offer comfort, given the wrongs of Lord Clark and his ilk.

Seeing me silent, Mrs. Clark nodded, "If it's convenient for you, stay here with me. That way, we can ensure your safety under my watch, and they wouldn't dare touch you"

"Thank you, ma'am," was all I could muster.

"It's getting late. You should get some rest," she said, pushing the dress back into my hands.

Leaving her meditation room, just as I was about to enter my own, I suddenly felt eyes on me. Instinctively, I turned around.