Chapter 66: The Hard Truth
Later that evening, they all sat down for dinner in Ashia's modest kitchen. The food was simple—just rice and vegetables—but to Mina, it felt bland and unappetizing.
"I used to have gourmet meals... now it's just this?" She poked at her plate, trying not to grimace.
Kana noticed her hesitation and smirked. "What, too fancy for rice?"
Mina shot him a glare. "No, it's just... different."
Ashia nudged Kana with her elbow. "Hey, leave her alone. She's still adjusting."
Mina forced a smile, though her heart ached with longing for the luxury she left behind. "Adjusting? More like struggling." She glanced around the table, realizing just how out of place she felt.
Chapter 67: Stumbling Through the Market
The next day, Ashia and Mina visited the local market. It was crowded, noisy, and overwhelming for Mina, who had never been in such a bustling place before.
"Stick close," Ashia said, guiding her through the throng of people. "It's easy to get lost in here."
Mina's heart pounded as she tried to keep up. "I used to have everything delivered. I never had to deal with this." The vendors shouted, children ran through the streets, and Mina could barely hear herself think.
Suddenly, someone bumped into her, knocking her slightly off balance. "Watch it!" she snapped, more out of reflex than anything.
The man mumbled an apology, and Mina felt a wave of guilt wash over her. "I shouldn't have snapped. I'm just... not used to this." She glanced at Ashia, embarrassed.
"You're doing fine," Ashia said with a smile. "It's a lot at first, but you'll get the hang of it."
Mina nodded, but deep down, she wasn't so sure.
Chapter 68: Missing the Comfort
That night, Mina lay in bed, staring up at the ceiling. The mattress was hard, and the blankets thin compared to the plush comfort she was used to back at the mansion.
"I miss my room. I miss my bed. I miss... not having to worry about anything." She felt a lump form in her throat, tears welling up in her eyes. "I thought freedom would feel better than this."
She curled up under the blankets, trying to push the thoughts away, but they clung to her like a heavy fog.
"I don't belong here. I don't fit in." The words echoed in her mind until sleep finally claimed her.
Chapter 69: Trying to Fit In
Over the next few days, Mina tried to involve herself in the group's daily activities, but every task seemed to highlight how out of place she was.
Haru handed her a basket to carry as they walked to the river to gather water. "Here, you can help with this."
Mina took the basket, her arms shaking slightly as she tried to balance it. "I've never had to carry anything before... everything was always done for me." She struggled to keep up with the others, her muscles straining from the unfamiliar task.
"Need some help?" Haru asked, noticing her discomfort.
"No, I've got it," Mina said quickly, though her voice wavered. She didn't want to admit how much she was struggling.
Ashia gave her a reassuring smile. "It's okay to ask for help, you know."
"I hate this. I hate feeling weak." Mina forced a nod, though inside, frustration bubbled.
Chapter 70: The Emotional Breakdown
That evening, after another exhausting day, Mina couldn't hold it in any longer. As they sat around the campfire, she burst into tears, startling everyone.
"Mina, what's wrong?" Ashia asked, rushing to her side.
"I can't do this!" Mina cried, her hands trembling. "I miss my old life. I miss not having to struggle. Everything here is so hard, and I feel useless!"
The others exchanged glances, unsure of how to respond.
Ashia placed a hand on Mina's shoulder. "It's okay, Mina. You've been through a lot. No one expects you to be perfect right away."
"I feel so out of place," Mina sobbed. "I'm not strong like you guys. I don't know how to do any of this."
Haru knelt beside her, his voice gentle. "You don't have to be like us. You're you, and that's enough."
"Is it? Will it ever be enough?" Mina thought, but the warmth of their words gave her a small sense of comfort.
YOU ARE READING
My Parents Locked Me Up, So I Snuck Out.
AdventureMina Yamada has lived her entire life in luxury, but her golden cage is far from perfect. Kept isolated by her wealthy, controlling parents, Mina isn't allowed to speak to anyone, explore beyond a few restricted streets, or ask questions about her p...
