Chapter 5: New town, Scary experience

The drive to Alex's residence was a peaceful, reflective one. My anxious thoughts were eased by the mellow sound of the engine and the flickering city lights outside. I was safe, and that gave me peace. However, doubts persisted. How could Alex have known that I was outside on my own, vulnerable? I didn't remember him from my wedding. I was astounded by the compound's grandeur as soon as we got to his house. Encircled by towering trees and perfectly trimmed lawns, the expansive estate covered several acres. Warm lighting glistened on the main house, a gorgeous modern villa.

Alex noticed my awe. "Do you like the compound?" he asked, a hint of pride in his voice.I managed a weak smile, still reeling from the day's events. I was in complete awe of the lavish interior. The opulent atmosphere was enhanced by the marble floors, tall ceilings, and tasteful furniture. I sunk into a luxurious sofa as Alex motioned for me to sit. He went into the kitchen and came out a little later carrying a glass of cold water.

He enquired, "What happened at the wedding?" as I was sipping. He spoke in a kind, friendly tone. I hesitated and froze. However, something about Alex's sympathetic stare calmed me down. I spilt my guts, telling about Henry's unexpected arrival, the charge, and the devastating fallout.

With a non-readable expression, Alex listened intently. He got up and said, "I'm going to bed," when I was done. I'll give you the guest room. I felt a wave of disappointment. I had a feeling he wouldn't trust me. With tears in my eyes, I said, "I knew you wouldn't believe me." Alex's face became less serious. "Goodnight," he replied in a quiet, comforting voice. I wiped my eyes so that no tears would come. I chose to stay in the sitting room, where there was a soothing silence, even though Alex offered me a cosy room. Sleep escaped me as the night went on. Thoughts of getting out of town and away from the anguish raced through my head. I would begin over tomorrow.

I woke up from my sleep to see the sun painting the sky in shades of pink and gold. I was filled with perplexity and panic as I relived the events of the day before. Resolved to get away from the chaos that had taken over my life, I made the decision to depart without saying goodbye. I skirted Alex's bodyguards who were standing guard at the doors and tiptoed out of the house. I felt energised by the chilly morning air, which was a welcome change from the stuffy atmosphere I had been stuck in. A mixture of fear and anticipation hammered in my heart as I made my way to the gate.

I hurried to my own house as soon as I was outside, trying to think of a way out. I asked my gatekeeper to call our housekeeper as soon as I arrived, and all I asked for was my credit card and phone. With a worried expression on her face, the housekeeper emerged. With pity in her eyes, she gave me the necessary items.

"Thank you," I murmured as appreciation welled up inside of me. I quickly switched on my phone and called Sallie after gathering my belongings. The soothing voice of my closest buddy came back, a ray of light among the shadows.

"Hey, girl! What's up?" she asked, her cheerful tone a stark contrast to my own.But my voice cracked, betraying my emotions. "Sallie...I need you," I stammered, tears threatening to spill over.

"Where are you? I'll come get you," Sallie urged, her voice filled with concern.

"No...I'll come to you. I'll catch a flight," I replied, my voice trembling.

"Okay, hurry. I'll be waiting," Sallie said, her voice filled with determination.

Rushing to the airport, I boarded the first available flight to Sallie's city. As the plane soared through the sky, my anxiety began to dissipate, replaced by a glimmer of hope.

Upon landing, I called Sallie to guide me to her place. "Hey, I'm here. Can't wait to see you," she said, her voice filled with excitement.

But she couldn't pick me up; she was at work. "Don't worry, grab a cab. I'll give you directions," she replied.

A sleek taxi awaited outside, its driver a friendly man with a warm smile. "Welcome, miss," he said. "Where to?"

I provided Sallie's address, and he nodded, his eyes scanning the road ahead.As we drove, fatigue overwhelmed me. The cabbie offered me water, which I gratefully accepted. Minutes passed, and my eyelids drooped.

Suddenly, I became dizzy but darkness claimed me. Waking up, I felt like I was being hit on the head. But that wasn’t my problem - as I looked around I realized I was alone, disoriented, and frightened. My phone and credit card were gone. Panic gripped me as I realized I was stranded in a strange city, alone and vulnerable.

What was happening ?

Was seeking refuge with Sallie a bad idea ?

How would I start anew ?