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.

I lowered my hand, he was already walking back. I sighed in relief

myself, 'Emily, you just wished to rely on yourself. Don't get distracted

drive. Curious, I asked, "What

believe in that stuff. I

by his confidence and couldn't help but

from every angle, whether talking or just sitting there, exuding a

the location?" he suddenly

and pointed to

today. Tell me the fare, and I'll pay you along

but I'm not all about money. And I'm a man. When a woman tells me she's homeless with tears in her eyes, any responsible

him, emotions swirling. Maybe Arthur hurt me too deeply. Compared

judgment was so poor. With so many suitors, how did I end

leave before walking

with no streetlights. Under the moonlight, I could see the potholes