DEADLY DECEPTION

CHAPTER 6

Avery's POV

I sat on the edge of my bed, my eyes fixed on the framed photograph of my parents that adorned my nightstand. They smiled back at me, frozen in a moment of happiness and love. I couldn't help but wonder how different my life would be if they were still here, guiding me through the complexities of the world. Their absence weighed heavy on my heart, and a sense of longing filled me as I imagined their comforting presence.

Lost in my thoughts, I was startled by a gentle knock on my bedroom door. The familiar voice of Maria called out my name. Quickly composing myself, I invited Maria inside.

"Good morning, my dear," Maria greeted me with a warm smile. "Everyone is waiting in the hall. It's time for us."

I nodded, understanding the urgency of the situation. I had seen first hand the dedication and love that Maria poured into the orphanage, and the thought of losing it was unbearable. With a sense of determination, I rose from my bed and followed Maria to the hall where the community had gathered.

As Maria stood before the crowd, her presence commanded attention. The room fell into a hushed silence, and all eyes turned to her. I stood by Maria's side, my heart racing with anticipation.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Maria began, her voice carrying a blend of strength and vulnerability, "we find ourselves facing a challenge that threatens the very existence of our beloved orphanage. The landlord has given us an ultimatum, demanding a higher rental or else the property will be sold to someone else."

Gasps and murmurs spread through the crowd, mingling with the shared concern and worry. I scanned the faces of the community, seeing the fear etched upon them. It was a pivotal moment that required unity and resolve.

"We cannot allow this to happen," Maria continued, her voice resolute. 

"This orphanage is not just a building; it's a haven, a sanctuary for these children who have nowhere else to go. We must fight to save it, to preserve the love and support it offers."

A chorus of agreement echoed through the room, their determination palpable. The community recognized the urgency and rallied behind Maria's words.

One by one, the members of the community shared their ideas and suggestions. Some proposed reaching out to potential donors, while others spoke of organizing fundraising events. The room buzzed with excitement as the collective spirit of resilience ignited.

Then, an idea emerged from the midst of the crowd—a daring plan to convince the landlord to sell the property to the community. It was a bold endeavour that required negotiation and raising the necessary funds. Maria hesitated, contemplating the challenges ahead.

"Are we really capable of achieving such a feat?" Maria questioned, her eyes searching the room for reassurance.

A resounding chorus of support and encouragement followed. The community believed in Maria's ability to lead them through this endeavour, and they were willing to stand by her side.

With newfound hope and determination, Maria and I agreed to pursue this ambitious plan. The meeting came to an end, and the community members dispersed, ready to take action and bring our vision to life.

After the meeting, I bid farewell to Maria, my heart brimming with gratitude for the woman who had become my guiding light in the orphanage. The weight of our shared mission to save the orphanage was palpable, but Maria's unwavering support gave me a renewed sense of determination.

"Bye, Maria," I said, my voice filled with warmth. "I'm off to the bookstore now. Wish me luck!"

Maria smiled affectionately, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, Avery, I have a feeling luck will find you no matter where you go. Especially with these interesting encounters, you seem to stumble upon."