BURNING RED

Chapter 4

SETTLE

I opened my eyes and looked around. My body felt heavy. I only knew that after Nana comforted me, I fell asleep.

I heard my mother's voice outside my room.

"You don't have the right to talk to me like that Nana. You're nothing. Step out of my way or you'll be sorry."

"Madame, I'm sorry but Lady Iona is still resting and doesn't wanna be disturbed."

"No, you get out of my way! That's why she acted like that back there! You're all spoiling her. I'm not just gonna let this pass. Her attitude is getting worse!"

I slowly got up and walked towards the door.

When I opened it, I saw Nana and Scott guarding my room outside.

My mother raised her brow at me when she saw me.

"So the Lady has finally woken up? Don't you know how stupid you acted back there?"

I remained impassive. It fuelled her anger more when I didn't answer.

"You spoiled vixen! Your fiancé was found alone in the courtyard. Do you know that it was rude and unethical? Whatever you do put shame to our name Iona! I regretted that I've given birth to you!"

"I didn't know that I have a fiancé Mom. I'm only thirteen years old." Her words stabbed my heart but I just swallowed it.

"I changed my mind! You'll marry him when you turn sixteen. You're getting out of hand. He will be the best candidate in handling a stupid girl like you."

"I don't wanna end up like you Mom!" Her eyes turned into a slit.

She stepped forward but Scott blocked her.

"Come again?"

"You're miserable and sad! I don't want to be like you." I answered heatedly.

"And Papa and Mama won't let you."

"You bitch! I'm your mother! So you will do what I tell you to do! Your grandparents won't have any say in here. Legally, I'm your guardian. You do what I want or you'll end up on the street!"She sneered.

"I rather end up on the street than be like you! Bitter and cold!"

"We'll see about that my dear Iona." She looked sharply at me then turned her back.

My heart was beating so loud. I have to call my Papa. I don't want to be forced. I knew what she was capable of doing, to make my life a living hell.

I have tried calling Papa but Ana only answered.

I couldn't bring the topic up to her so I just asked her to tell my Papa to call me once he's free.

One week had gone by, but I still didn't get any phone call. It worried me a lot because my mother banned Nana and Scott to come near me.

I've also heard that Nana was transferred to our Aberdeen Mansion and would likely to never come back while Scott nearly got fired but kept a job here as a gardener.

And everything happened after my refusal to my mother's bidding.

She was doing this to make me follow her. But I would keep my ground. I wouldn't let her decide for my life.

Every day, I have chaperones that accompany me where ever I go. I was like a prisoner in my own home. I was just lucky enough to retain my laptop with me and my phone. But it seemed like my line was cut off too.

Since I've got more time to myself, after my lessons and homework, I had taken up lessons in Philippine Culture and language. I promised to myself that I would learn their language and would never be ignorant once I return.