In The Arms Of An Alpha

Episode 01 Hailey's Point Of View Hearing those criticisms and judgments about my body size makes me want to cry and envy them for having a normal body size. Is it my fault I have such a big body? I tried to change, but no matter what diet or exercise I did, there seemed to be no hope. So, I’ll just embrace my flaws because the only person who can accept my flaws is myself. I talked to myself in the mirror. Always remember, Hailey, you are the only person who can love everything about you, regardless of who you are or what size shirt you wear. Only a few students are coming to school, and I’m still puzzled by the reason. I’m quite active on social media, particularly i********:, where I post a lot, even on trivial topics. I can’t quite explain it; I just love posting. “Sweetie, have you heard the news? Our city is going to experience a complete lockdown.” “That’s quite alarming, Mom. Why is there a complete lockdown? Did they explain it on the news?” “It’s because of the new virus that’s spreading rapidly,” Dad replied. “This will undoubtedly impact our business.” “Don’t worry, Dad. I know you’re resourceful and can find a way to make our business thrive even in the face of such challenges.” “Of course, baby,” Dad said with a smile. He's happy and he knows that I am very proud of him. Of course, he's my dad. "Hailey, we have something very important to tell you," Mom said, catching my attention. My eyes were fixed on her. “Yes, Mom?” I asked, curious. "What is it?" “Because of this virus, Dad and I are concerned about your health. So, we talked and decided to let you decide which option you’d prefer.” “What is it, Mom?” I was getting confused and wanted her to explain everything right away so I could understand. "You have two options to choose from: study at home or stay in school." “I want to study at home,” I replied to Mom, without hesitation. If I had to choose, I would prefer to study here at home. I don’t want to go to school because I only receive insults. “Unfortunately, you can’t choose to study at home, darling,” Dad said. “Harry,” I could hear Mom’s warning tone. Mom didn’t seem to like Dad’s decision. “We have talked about this, Grace,” Dad said. “Dad, I don’t want to stay in school for a long time. I just want to be here if I can decide where I want to study. "Let our daughter choose what she wants. Please. She’s old enough to know what’s best for her.” “She won’t study in our home. She only has one option: to study in her school while it’s a total lockdown.” I looked at Dad when he said I couldn’t choose to study here at home. “Why can’t she study here?” Mom asked. “We’ve talked about this many times,” Dad replied. “Yes, yet you didn’t tell me the reason why my daughter can’t stay here with us!” Mom was getting mad at him right now. I could feel the frustration and disappointment in her eyes as she talked to Dad. Me too. “I just want the best for our daughter. I’m concerned about her studies.” “Why can’t you explain your worry so I can understand it?” “We have a company, and we can’t focus on Hailey’s studies. She needs to study in school to learn and focus. It’s as simple as that.” I understood Dad’s point. Of course, the company is more important to him than to me. Mom is still arguing that I can study at home, but Dad wants me to stay in school so that I can focus on my lessons and study well without distractions. “I agree with Dad,” I said, even though I didn’t want to. I just said that to end the conversation and stop Mom from telling Dad to keep me home while I’m studying. As Dad said, I don’t have any other options but to study at school. Let’s accept his decision for me. “No, sweetheart, you can study here." "She’s already made her choice, so let her go to the school she’s chosen. She’ll stay there during the entire lockdown. We’ll provide everything she needs, including allowances and a dorm. We’ll make sure she gets the best dorm within their school.” “Harry, do you understand what you’re saying? Our child is a woman. She’s our daughter! We must protect her. We need to keep her inside, especially given what’s happening to our country. A total lockdown is not a joke.” “It’s not a joke, especially for our company. We’ll lose everything if we’re not focused. We need her to study in school, and we’ll focus on our business. That’s the plan we’ve talked about.” “But she’s still our little girl, and we can’t just let her go like this.” Mom gets teary-eyed, and so do I. “I know, and she’s a big girl now. She’ll understand. She’s at the right age to be independent. We’re doing this for her. Because we love our only daughter.” Still, Dad is trying not to give us any emotions. He’s still trying to be strong, even though he’s not. He doesn’t want us to see him weak. “I can’t believe it’s coming from you. Can’t you see Hailey? She’s still a baby, our precious little girl.” Dad remained silent, continuing to eat. Mom and I were frozen in shock. She held my hand and whispered her heartfelt apologies. “I’m so sorry, sweetheart,” she said. “It’s okay, Mom. It’s not your fault. This is what I’ve always wanted to happen.” Despite my deep desire to resist, I knew I couldn’t defy Dad’s wishes. Mom helped me pack my belongings. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll be fine,” I reassured her. “I’m scared you won’t,” she replied. “Mom, just like Dad said, I’m a grown-up now. I’m not your little girl anymore. I can handle myself,” I insisted. “I’m your mother, and I know if you can handle yourself or not. And I think you can’t, yet. Why did you agree to stay in school? Dad and I talked, and believe me, he agreed. You can study here at home, and I’ll hire a tutor to guide you.” “But Dad wasn’t sure about that. He wants me to stay in school,” I protested. “I don’t understand your Dad. He’s changing his mind so quickly. We women are still being defeated,” she sighed. “Let’s just try to understand him. I’m sure he knew what was best for me, just like you, Mom,” I suggested. “Thank you, sweetheart. Don’t be mad at him. He just wants the best for you,” she reassured me. “I know, Mom. Thank you for making me feel better tonight,” I replied. “Okay, let me help you pack your things. I’m pretty sure you’ll get a lot of dresses. You have a lot of clothes, and I know you want to bring them all,” she said, helping me pack my belongings. Mom’s words left me stunned. “You also know that not all the dresses I want fit me.” “You’re going on a diet, sweetie. I asked a friend to get you a gym instructor, but unfortunately, that can’t continue because you have to stay in school.” “Why do you look so sad?” “You know I don’t want you to leave this house. I prefer you to study here.” “Mom,” “I’m afraid you will have a virus that’s spreading now.” “I’ll be safe. Don’t worry, Mom. I won’t be harmed.” “I still can’t help but worry, especially since the number of cases is increasing.” “I understand, Mom. Everything will be okay soon. Maybe I’ll be better if I stay in school. I’m sure they’ll make sure that inside there are no viruses. You have nothing to worry about, Mom.” “As long as you need help or anything, call me right away. Don’t hesitate. I’ll come and get you right away.” “Yes, Mom.” She hugged me very tightly. I returned the hug. This is my last hug with Mom, so I’ll cherish it. I’m sure it will take months before I hug her again, maybe even years because of the worsening of the virus spreading in our country. I also stayed home for a few weeks due to the spreading virus. It’s even worse than before; you can’t even come out without wearing a face mask and face shield. Now, our entire city is under lockdown. Next week, I’ll be tested to see if I have a virus. If the results are negative, I’ll be quarantined for two weeks before I’m admitted to the school I’ll be attending. Everyone at Haven University is assured of safety because the students who stay there have passed some tests. They also mentioned that they always disinfect and are very careful to prevent the virus from spreading inside the school. Mom and Dad decided that I should attend that school. I don’t mind it because I know they made that decision for my good. I still believe in the saying, “Parents know what’s best for their child.”