Ruthless

8

My mouth hung open, partially covered by my palm, as I found myself unable to look away from the lifeless girl who had been breathing just moments ago. It was unfathomable that someone could be so heartless as to take the life of their own child. Was she a step? Even if she was, what kind of animosity could drive someone to such merciless action without even a hint of hesitation?

My line of sight was obstructed by Allison, who was crouched near the motionless body, her face etched with sorrow. Gently, she closed the woman's eyes, her expression oozing empathy. Her lips moved silently, as if she were offering silent condolences to the deceased.

Understanding the nature of this woman was to be a challenge. It was really hard to discern whether she was inherently virtuous or evil. No truly benevolent person would resort to kidnapping and compel others into wrongdoing, but her demeanor included acts of kindness, showing compliments, and preventing people from getting harm. She remained a puzzle.

"She was a kind woman," she said with a tone tinged with regret.

I had an urge to scream and demand why she allowed them to hurt her, given her gentle nature. Yet, logically, it wasn't Allison who caused her death, but there was no way she was unaware of what was coming. There was no way she hadn't anticipated it.

"Stop this nonsense," a thunderous voice cut through, revealing the depth of his fury.

The previously seated elderly man now stood, his expression reflecting the intensity of his enraged tone.

What happened to him now?

"When?" he paused and then continued, "When are you going to get married?" His voice sounded calmer, but the lines on his aged face still betrayed his bitter emotions and disappointment.

With no response from Adam, the old man's narrowed eyes showed the patience he had managed to gather was swiftly fading again.

Oh, I forget to mention his anger was directed towards a calm looking Adam.

"Fine, then you leave me no choice," he stated firmly.

"NO," Allison interjected with a panicked, loud shriek, barely allowing the old man to finish his sentence.

The man snapped his head toward Allison, his eyes hardening like stone, if that were even possible. I thought this man couldn't get any angrier than before.

Allison's face paled, and she lowered her head in shame before whispering, but loud enough for me to hear, "I'm sorry."

She's clearly intimidated by this old man. Here I cannot blame her. He did look like" don't mess with me kind.

Allison's head didn't stay lowered for long. A few seconds later, she looked back at the old man, clearing her throat before adding, "Adam has feelings for a girl.

"I wanted to ask who that unfortunate girl was, but I held my tongue.

Anyway, had he rejected the poor girl because he was already in love with someone else? If that was the case, why would she claim she was perfect for Adam?

It all feels so confusing that I feel as if I've entered a maze without an exit, constantly running from one place to another, searching for an end that doesn't exist.

"I've been hearing that for a long time," the old man remarked.

Allison was quick to stand by his side, delicately taking his hand. The old man looked at their hands with the same frown on his face but made no move to withdraw or show any sign of displeasure.

"I am not making this up. In fact, she is here in this room with us," she declared.

My head rotated around the room. My confusion heightened when I saw the only women present in the room were me, Kelly, Angela, and Janet.