Distilled

Chapter 3

Aunt Pearl had come to organize the funeral, and all I did was hide from her sight. Her boyfriend who had come along was staring at me like a piece of meat. Once I went down to get water, I heard the two of them talking.

-I don't want this brat around, Pearl. You know I hate children.

-But we can use it to make some money, and then... I don't know, we sell it to some crazy p*****t. But for now I need to know what's in that will. So no approaching her, you hear?

I ran upstairs and locked myself in my room. Would I ever be free? I sat on my bed crying and from the window I saw Michael's car. He and two other men got out of the car. One of them I recognized was his father, Francis. The other was in a suit like them, but I didn't recognize him. I got to the stairs and hid. I heard the doorbell ringing and Pearl went to answer the door. Francis introduced himself and walked in starting the conversation.

-Look, I don't want to spend more than the necessary time in here. Jhon was my friend and I am so sorry for his loss. But for a long time I've been agreeing with him about my interest in his daughter.

-And what do you intend with Alice?

-That's really none of your business. But I have papers here that prove my sponsorship of the girl. So I'd like to take it. Now.

-No, you can't just take it. I was going to make good money with this girl.

-No, you weren't. I wouldn't know how to manage it like Jhon did, so I'll just give that amount to you. out of generosity. Michael will go upstairs and help you with your bags. And you will leave this house in the next 15 minutes. I will be counting.

I heard Francis say those things and I went up to my room and started crying. Then Michael came into my room and I cringed. He sat on my bed and held my hand.

-Priscilla, what happened?

-It was your father's plan all along, wasn't it? What are you going to do with me? Lock me up in an attic and take advantage of me? I can not handle it anymore.

-No, Alie. Look at me. That whole sponsorship thing was done after I found you. I was trying to find a way to get you out of Michael's clutches and my dad had this idea. We would never... I would never hurt you. I'm keeping my promise. You will get out of here. Davina is looking forward to meeting you. She's even renovated the guest room for you in our house.

- Is Davina your mother?

-Yes, and Laura and Sophie will be there too. They are crazy to find you. But, I'm sorry, you'll have to go with us to London.

-London?

-Yes, there is the only place where I can protect you. I wouldn't ask if you were older, but you must stay with us at least until you're eighteen.

-All right.

Michael helped me pack my bags in complete silence. I trusted Michael like I never trusted anyone. And I hope my trust is placed in a person who deserves it.