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.

already walking

rely on yourself. Don't get

our drive. Curious,

wish. I don't believe in that stuff. I only believe in myself," Ethan said, tapping

by his confidence and couldn't help but look at

angle, whether talking or just sitting there,

the location?" he suddenly asked, catching

away and pointed to an alley. "Right

car stopped, and I got out, taking my suitcase. "Thanks for today. Tell me the

And I'm a man. When a woman tells me she's homeless with tears in her eyes, any responsible man wouldn't just

at him, emotions swirling. Maybe Arthur hurt me too deeply. Compared to him, Ethan seemed genuinely

judgment was so poor. With so many suitors, how

Ethan's car leave before walking

streetlights. Under the moonlight, I could see the potholes