CHAPTER TEN: Courage

Despite the inappropriate advancement of the manager, I accepted the job. I’m desperate to end the cycle of rejection and despair, to get my chance of independence and to prove that I’m more than just a housewife.

Little do I know, however, that my journey will soon take a dark turn.

The Express Cafe bustles with the morning rush. I’ve landed a job as a barista.

As I steam milk and pull espresso shots, I find myself the target of unwanted advances from both the manager, and the owner. When no one is looking, they’d brush their c.rotch area against my b.utt, their fingers touching my exposed legs, sending a shiver of disgust through my bones.

I feel trapped in another nightmare that’s not easy to escape.

And it doesn't end there. The manager, sensing my subtle defiance on his advances, would take revenge by humiliating me in front of my colleagues. He would nitpick every move I’m making, correcting me with a sneer even when there’s nothing to correct.

My anger simmers beneath the sur