Ephemeral Ecstasy

Chapter 10

"Deal or No Deal?" Carmelita's words hung in the air. She found delight in her pursuits and had little patience. Yedd removed his hand from Carmelita's, rising to his feet. "NO DEAL," his voice sounded, shocking the young woman with its intensity. He departed without a care for his surroundings.

Though taken aback, Carmelita found herself invigorated by her actions. They were challenging her to reach higher. "I'll win you over, Yedd," she cheerfully declared as she watched the young man exit through the door.

"Are you working here?" a voice from behind Carmelita inquired. She didn't wait for Carmelita to turn around and sat in the spot Yedd occupied earlier. When Carmelita noticed her surprise, the woman offered a sweet smile. The girl was dressed in a fitted outfit similar to Carmelita's, albeit in a different color and design. "HI, I'M MARTHA."

"CARMELITA, I'm just a customer here," Carmelita replied, extending her hand for a handshake.

"I overheard earlier that you were offering that guy. In this bar, we're not allowed to make advances; it should be the guys who approach. I was about to tell you that what you're doing is against the rules. I'm sorry," the woman's voice was crystal clear, making it easy for Carmelita to understand.

"It's Okay, Martha. How old are you?"

"18."

"We're the same age," Carmelita replied with a smile.

"Why would you even consider making advances? Don't be like us; you'll have a hard time finding a man who will accept your personality. Don't waste your looks and body on frivolous pursuits and vanity. Carmelita, focus on your studies, you'll eventually find true happiness." Martha's words struck a chord in her heart. After delivering her message, Martha rose, gave Carmelita a reassuring tap on the shoulder, and left.

Carmelita had been in a daze since Martha's words, unable to accept a reality where no one would embrace her true self, where love seemed elusive, and where she couldn't bear a lifetime of such circumstances. Her dream had always been to have a child, to live a peaceful life where everything wouldn't be overshadowed by the curse. She couldn't come to terms with it.

She steered herself back to her original location, pouring a drink. Each night, the scent of alcohol awakened Carmelita's s****l desires. After finishing the bottle, she immediately began her search.

Following her quest, the two ended up at a hotel. The man had a handsome face, well-built, but he was 35 years old and mentioned having a wife. The curse made no distinctions, so Carmelita did what was necessary for the curse's sake. The next morning, as was her routine, she left early. Upon arriving home, she went straight to her bedroom and lay on the soft bed.

Before closing her eyes, she cautioned the parents of the children not to send them to school today, as she had an appointment later. Carmelita knew she'd be out for a while, and she might not awaken soon. In an instant, her joy vanished when she received unexpected news. Her world crumbled, not because she couldn't sleep, but due to a call from the police station. The words spoken by an officer stung Carmelita's heart and brought tears to her eyes.

While composing herself, Carmelita used the opportunity to call Yedd. She informed him that they were summoned to the station. The news had Yedd on edge; the sorrow in Carmelita's voice was evident. The officer had already informed Carmelita, but she lacked the courage to tell others, leaving it to the station to inform Yedd.

Yedd arrived at the police station first, choosing to wait for Carmelita outside rather than going in. His emotions and thoughts were at odds, and he knew that this news was grim.

"Carmelita!" Yedd called out as he spotted her emerging from the car. Her eyes resembled those of someone addicted, and her body seemed frail. In her actions and demeanor, Yedd could tell that his suspicions were correct.

Swiftly, the two entered, Yedd greeted the officers, while the one beside him remained indifferent. He knew he needed to be strong.

"Are you the ones looking for Ankara Verdosa?" the words of the police officer jolted Carmelita, so she responded, "Yes, that's us."

"Please, have a seat," the officer gestured for them to sit in the two chairs in front of his desk. "Do you remember the color of her clothing, Ma'am and Sir?"

Yedd answered because he knew where Ankara had last been. He had also seen her outfit on the hospital's CCTV, from when she left her room to when she left the hospital. "It was a black jacket paired with jeans, and she was wearing a mask. In fact, I have a photo." Yedd immediately showed the photo to the police officer, a sense of sadness evident in his eyes.

The police officer promptly showed them a picture displayed on an A4 sheet. The clothing matched what Ankara had worn that night, but her face was unrecognizable. Without waiting for their response, the officer continued to speak.

"Her body decomposed rather quickly. It's best to bury her body."

"In this photo, you can see the ligature marks on her neck. She didn't die at the hands of someone else; she took her own life."

"If you wish to further investigate, please don't hesitate to reach out to us."

Carmelita couldn't hold back her tears, unable to accept the loss of her friend. Yedd, too, concealed his emotions as best he could. "Where was she found?"

"In an empty lot near WPG Hospital."