Unveiled: The Survivor's Triumph

Chapter 8 I Only Trust Myself

"Is this advice from you as a man?" I asked Ethan.

"It's advice as a human. People avoid harm and go for what benefits them most," Ethan replied.

Halfway through our drive, we saw some trees being cut down, their cross-sections laid out in front of us.

Ethan pulled over by the woods, stood by the largest tree, and waved me over. Confused, I got out and walked to him.

We stood in front of the tree, and Ethan tapped the cross-section with his finger, smiling. "I heard tapping wood wards off bad luck. Give it a try. Tap it and make a wish."

Not wanting to refuse, I mimicked him, tapped the tree, and made a wish. I wished to rely on myself and for a better life.

When I opened my eyes, Ethan was staring at me intensely. Feeling shy, I pretended the sunlight was too bright and shielded my eyes, quickly composing myself.

walking back. I sighed in relief but felt a bit

just wished to rely on yourself. Don't get distracted by a

the car, we continued our drive. Curious,

that stuff. I

was taken aback by his confidence and couldn't help

every angle, whether talking or just sitting there, exuding a unique masculine

location?" he suddenly

looked away and pointed to an alley. "Right

my suitcase. "Thanks for today. Tell me the fare, and I'll pay you

a man. When a woman tells me she's homeless with tears in her eyes,

stared at him, emotions swirling. Maybe Arthur hurt me

my judgment was so poor. With so many

Ethan's car leave before walking

alley was narrow and rundown, with no streetlights. Under the moonlight, I could see the