CAUGHT IN A BURNING SIN

Chapter 1

Freedom

It was a school day. Others see school days as exciting and fun, but for me, it was terrible. I didn't have any friends or someone to talk to. At first, I thought it was just normal since it was my first day. However, as time passed, I noticed something weird. They distanced themselves and treated me like a ghost wandering in the shadows.

I sense that something is happening. I have attempted to speak to them, yet there is no response. Regardless of my actions or words, they neglect me as though I were invisible. What bothers me further is not solely their ghostly treatment, but the fact that teachers and all school officials disregard me, acting as if I am entirely invisible.

I ignored those things and put them all aside at once. Instead, I poured my attention into my academics. I worked smart and hard, doing my best to be the greatest of all the best.

When I reached college, I decided to work. I chose the path where I could walk on my own feet. I was aware it wouldn't be easy since my brothers were going against it, and I know they'll do everything to stop me.

When I reached the age of 18 years old, our father asked me what kind of gift I wanted. And I told him, "freedom."

My father's words are absolute, and I need something that would put boundaries between my brothers and me.

A great impenetrable defense against a powerful offense.

I have started working part-time as a cashier in a convenience store. Yes, I know I am capable of doing better and engaging in office work, but I prefer to avoid companies where I know my brothers can exert their influence.

"Hey, are you okay?" Caleb, my co-worker, asked me.

"Yup, I just became a little dazed." I said.

Just as he was about to speak, an old customer abruptly appeared, urgently requesting aid with the coffee machine.

Once my shift was over, I headed out with Caleb. Earlier, he had invited me to join him for a meal at a local Korean food stall.

It has been a while since I ate Korean food. I love Korean dishes, especially the kimchi and paste soup.

We quickly arrived at the store, Caleb ordered unlimited pork and beef. He also ordered some kimchi soup and soybean paste soup. Lastly, he ordered a bottle of soju.

"Soju aren't bad," I said.

"The Soju is mine. You have the honey lemon juice," he said.

"What? I also want Soju," I said.

He looked at me as if I'm being crazy.

"The last time we drank, you got knocked out. I had to drag you all the way home," he chuckled.

I blushed as I remembered what happened after that incident.

Fortunately, Caleb remained blissfully unaware as our food arrived, and we dined in silence. After a while, we finished our meal, and now, outside, he is walking me home. After a long, silent walk, we have finally reached my apartment.

"Thank you for the meal and for accompanying me here," I said politely.

I was about to leave when he reached for my hand.

"Did I do something wrong?" he asked with a hint of concern.

"What?" I asked.

"Did I do something wrong?" he repeated.

"You've been silent all along. Is it about the Soju?" he said. I blushed and looked away. "Look, I'm sorry, but I don't want you to get knocked out like the last time. You almost hit your head on the floor," he said.

"It's not about that," I said out of nowhere. "Then what?" he asked.

He looked at me for a second, then he started walking slowly towards me. He held the glass door so that I wouldn't fall as I leaned against it, cornering me.

"Do you have a fever?" he asked. "Excuse me?!" I exclaimed, taken aback. "N-No, I don't." I applied a light force to encourage him to step back and release his grip on the glass door.

"Thank you again," I said as I ran to the elevator, thankfully it opened as soon as I clicked the up button. I heard him calling my name, but I pushed the 18th floor button as fast as I could.

I went straight to my bedroom and lay on the bed. I covered my face with a pillow and thought about everything that had happened.

"So stupid, Cleome," I said to myself. I closed my eyes, feeling tired, and everything turned black.

Third person Pov

In a large room, there were five men. One man went to a table where Cleome's pictures were displayed. Enraged by what he saw, he threw the glass from which he was drinking.
The other men witnessed the incident but chose not to say anything in order to preserve the mood. Instead, they directed their attention to the women beside them.

After all, this kind of session was created solely for their pleasure

To accommodate their needs and their anger.

As soon as they have finished fulfilling their needs, the true fun begins.