BOUND BY CHANCE

- 3 -

Chapter 3: A Stormy Confrontation

                   HAZEL POV

I woke up early, eager to escape my troubled home life. At university, I found solace in Stella's company.

As we walked, she noticed my distress. "Darling, you're off today."

I hesitated, sharing my painful secret. "I missed the bus, and she slapped me. I slapped her back."

Stella's expression turned fiery. "I hate her so much!"

I sought reassurance. "Did I do wrong?"

Stella's grip on my hand tightened. "No, darling. You stood up for yourself."

After class, we sought refuge in a nearby café.

However, my tranquility was short-lived. Amelia Hopper, my stepmother, called.

"Come home," she demanded.

I reluctantly returned, finding my step-family laughing together. The scene should have included my mom, not them.

"Dad, why are you here?" I asked, my emotions simmering.

"Your marriage is arranged," he announced, his words like a slap.

"Mine?! What do you mean?" I erupted.

Ava chimed in, "Yes, yours."

I turned on her. "I never asked you. This is our family matter."

My dad shouted, "Ava's part of our family, Hazel!"

Tears pricked at my eyes. "What do you mean, Dad?"

He revealed his true intentions: "Your marriage will settle my business debts."

Rage consumed me. "Do you think my life's a joke?"

"Hazel, remember your promise to your mom-" He yelled.

I cut him off, my voice cracking. "Don't call her your wife. She was once, but never again. You don't deserve Mom. You married this gold digger, who abuses me. You favor Ava, never thinking of me."

My emotions boiled over. "I hate you, Dad. I hate you so much!"

I stormed into my room, slamming the door.

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Hi!! Thus is my ff, I also posted this on my old account [yn_ynie_yn] So, I couldn't complete it... so here it is!! 🎀🎀