Clara walked aimlessly along the lonely road, dragging her small travel bag behind her, tears streaming down her face. The night was cold, and her body trembled both from fear and exhaustion.
Every step felt heavier than the last. She had nowhere to go; no money, no means of transport.
The thought of trekking all the way to her parents’ home made her legs weaker.
She tried to wave down passing cars, hoping someone would pity her enough to stop. But even the few that slowed down quickly sped off once they noticed her disheveled appearance.
She sighed and muttered prayers under her breath, begging for safety, begging for mercy.
Minutes later, a black Camry screeched to a stop beside her. Her heart leapt in relief as the driver wound down the window.
“Good evening, beautiful lady,” t
