Carmen’s POV
I sat heavily on the old couch, feeling overwhelmed by all my problems like a heavy storm. The dirty walls of the apartment I shared with my mom seemed to close in on me, suffocating me with their silent disapproval. It felt like the universe was purposely testing how strong I was by throwing one obstacle after another in my way.
My landlord, who was always impatient and persistent, kept bothering me relentlessly. Every morning, his annoying voice would come through the phone, reminding me of the four months' rent I owed. The threat of being kicked out of my home was always hanging over me like a dark cloud, ready to burst at any moment. The place I used to call my humble home had turned into a battleground, and I was losing the fight against financial instability.
But it wasn't just the landlord that worried me. My job, which used to provide stability, had become a cruel trick of a gun. The small paycheck it gave me barely covered my basic needs, leaving me drowning in unpaid bills and growing debts. It seemed like every effort I made to improve my situation only dragged me further into a pit of hopelessness.
I felt desperate and hungry, reminding me that our pantry was empty. My stomach made loud noises in the quiet apartment, making fun of my situation. I reluctantly went into the small kitchen, where I found a pack of ramen noodles thrown away. It was the last bit of food left in my empty place. I held onto it, hoping it would satisfy my hunger.
As I filled a pot with water, I couldn't help but wonder how I ended up in this situation. The promises of a better future had disappeared, and now I had to focus on surviving. I wasn't sure if I would be able to find food for tomorrow or make my life better.
I lit the stove with shaking hands and watched the flame dance, strangely beautiful. The water started boiling, and I put the ramen noodles in, watching them sink into the bubbling water. The smell of the broth filled the air, bringing back both good and sad memories.
As I stirred the noodles, I wished for something amazing to happen. I wanted a lucky twist that would turn my life around and lead me to redemption. Maybe, buried within my difficulties, there was a good outcome waiting to appear when I least expected it.
But as the ramen noodles cooked and smelled delicious, I realized that hope alone wouldn't satisfy my hunger or fix my broken life. The real miracle, I understood, was in my own determination, strength, and unwavering spirit. Even though the future looked risky and uncertain, I promised myself to keep going, taking it one step at a time, knowing that my journey wasn't finished yet.
For now, I would enjoy the simple noodles, knowing that they represented more than just food, but also my unyielding spirit. Sitting in our rundown apartment, surrounded by reminders of my struggles, I felt a spark of defiance. It was time to rise up and create my own future, despite the challenges.
I felt desperate and anxious as I whispered strong prayers for a miracle before falling asleep. The loud noise of my alarm woke me up exactly at 7 o'clock, and my tired mind struggled to wake up completely. Even though I felt tired and heavy, I knew I had to get out of bed. Today, I had an important appointment that could change my life. I felt a mix of excitement and fear as I hoped for a good outcome.
I quickly dressed in professional clothes: a black turtleneck, white wide-leg pants, and black slip-on shoes. I wanted to look confident and composed. I tied my messy hair into a ponytail and took a moment to check my appearance in the mirror. I nodded, feeling both satisfied and nervous. I put my white bag over my shoulder and made sure I had the files with my carefully prepared portfolios and designs.
I was in a hurry because I didn't have much time, and my fridge was completely empty. I couldn't have breakfast before leaving. I know when I get home, I would feel very hungry. As I was about to open the door, something unexpected happened. My landlord, who is a strict person in his fifties, suddenly appeared in front of me. He looked disapproving. I felt nervous and tried to act cheerful, hiding my anxious feelings.
"Mr. Thomas,"I shouted, trying to sound happy even though I felt really desperate. My landlord looked serious and scared me. But I had to act brave and not show my fears. I had to pretend to be confident, even though it felt like everything could fall apart at any moment.
"I hope your morning was as pleasant as mine, Mr. Thomas," I said it with a shaky voice. He looked at me closely, and I could feel his doubt coming from him strongly. It felt like a dark cloud.
"My money, Miss Carmen," he demanded, his voice cutting through the morning air. The words felt heavy, reminding me of the money I owed and the chance of getting kicked out. I swallowed hard, my throat feeling dry, as I tried to come up with a believable excuse.
Sweat started forming on my forehead as I desperately looked for a solution to this dangerous problem. And then, a bold idea hit me suddenly. I pointed at his bald head, his shaved scalp shining in the sunlight.
"Your new haircut looks so nice on you, bringing out your fully handsome looks," I complimented, but it wasn't sincere. I wanted to make him stop thinking about the money he wanted. But when he looked confused instead of serious, I realized my plan to distract him might have failed.
"Enough with the flattery," he retorted, a mix of annoyance and curiosity in his eyes. "I am here for my money, and I assure you that this time, no amount of your flattery will let me leave without taking what's owed."
His words struck me like a blow, and I struggled to maintain my composure. I had underestimated Mr. Thomas's resolve, and now the walls of my hope seemed to crumble around me. But I couldn't afford to give up.
"Not now, Mr. Thomas," I pleaded, my voice trembling. "I will pay you today, as promised."
The air became tense as he looked at me intensely, seeing through my fake appearance. At that moment, I desperately hoped for something lucky to happen and rescue me from impending disaster. I used all my acting skills to show that I truly felt sorry and regretful.
"It must be settled tonight, or I will throw you out," he warned, his voice laden with finality. I nodded, my heart sinking as I watched him turn away and disappear towards the other tenants' apartments.
As soon as he closed the door behind him, I felt a strong sense of urgency. Tonight was my last opportunity, my final hope to change things for the better. With a determined mindset, I quickly left the apartment, leaving behind the empty promise of breakfast. I had an appointment that could completely transform my life, a small chance amidst all the difficulties.
I had no idea that this appointment held more than just the possibility of changing my life. It had secrets, challenges, and unexpected events waiting for me. Already dressed in my work clothes, I walked out into the busy streets, prepared to face whatever fate had planned for me.
The sun created long shadows across the city as I maneuvered through the crowded sidewalks. I felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The weight of my dreams was heavy on my shoulders, urging me to keep moving. Would this appointment be the key to a better future, or would it end up being another letdown, adding to my growing list of disappointments?
°°°
I borrowed money from my mom and wasn't sure if I could pay her back. As I got to the bus station, I quickly got on the bus so I wouldn't miss my important appointment. Mr. Thomas took a lot of my time by standing in the doorway. As the bus started its journey, I sat in the comfortable backseat and worried about what would happen if my work didn't get attention.I was going to Blackwood's Enterprises, a big art gallery that has an art festival every year. The festival was only two months away, and I wanted to show my talent there. They invited painters from all over to compete for a great opportunity. On their website, they said the artist with the best painting would not only have their artwork displayed at the festival but also get 5 million dollars and a job offer from the company.This opportunity was really important to me, and I knew many other people wanted it too. A lot of contestants would be there, all trying to make a big impression. But only three would win: the first,
Carmen's POV There was a very pretty lady standing in front of us on a raised platform that I didn't notice at first. I couldn't stop looking at her face and attractive body. But let me clarify, I'm not a lesbian. I'm just admiring her beauty like one would appreciate something beautiful that the lord created."Good morning everyone," she finally greeted us with a serious tone, and we all responded to her greeting."My name is Miss Peterson," she introduced herself, and I'm sure you all know why you're here," she said, almost like she was asking, and we all nodded. Well, I did because some people said "yes.""That's good because if you don't know, please leave. This isn't a place for games," she added, and people started whispering as some began to comment on how rude she was behaving.Well, they weren't completely right or completely wrong. She was just doing her job, so it's necessary for her to be strict."But not too strict," my annoying subconscious said, and I immediately
CARMEN'S POV"What?! What did you say happened to you?" Chloe asked me as I sipped on the juice she had poured me. "I said that I was offered a proposal. This man wants to get married to me!" I said. I still can't believe the luck that I had today. But seriously, is this even luck? I don't know who this man is at all and I don't know what problems he has that he will have to ask someone to be his wife for a year. I mean, he's actually very good looking so I'm sure that it won't be hard for him to date and get married right? Why does he need someone to do this for him for a fee?"Wow I can't....I can't believe this. What's going on in your life Carmen? This is like a scene out of a movie! How can you meet someone who just offered to marry you? It doesn't make sense at all" Chloe said. I nodded my head, knowing that she's right. It doesn't make sense at all. "I don't know....I don't understand what happened either. Today, I left the house, hoping to display my art in a gallery an
CARMEN'S POV"It is Andres" "Andres?!" I called out in shock. "Yes. It's me. I was wondering why you left without saying a word?" He asked me. I turned to Chloe and mouthed to her. "It's him!""Yeah...I had something that I needed to do, that is why I decided to leave. ..I am sorry" I said to him. He sighed. The way he did that made me feel as if he was scolding me even though he did not say a word. He made me feel unsettled when he did this. "I thought that you regretted agreeing to my offer and that is why you left," he said. I laughed guiltily. "Of course not! I didn't regret it! It's a very.... attractive offer and I'd be more than willing to get married to you. I just had something to do. Do you think that we can meet up and talk about the details more clearly?" I asked him I decided to make the first move and ask him since I didn't want to make the mistake that I made earlier. "Sure. Would you like to meet me tomorrow at the Rhys Restaurant? Let's say at 2 pm perhaps?" H
ANDRESI frowned. Mainly because Derek is right. Saying that I did not notice how hot she is is just a big lie. She's very pretty and I noticed her. All parts of her.Even though she wore clothes that were aimed at covering her up completely. I actually would not mind getting to know more "personally" but that will only complicate things for me. And I hate complications more than anything. I just need her to play the role of my fake wife perfectly for a year. If she does a good job that satisfies me, I might just set her up for life. "I don't know what you are talking about Derek! Stop cooking up scenarios in your head" I said to Derek. "So you're telling me that you don't think that she's hot at all? You don't think that? Does this mean that it's okay for me to go after her since I find her extremely pretty?" Derek asked me. I know that he was saying this just to rile me up but I still fell for it. I glared at him. "Don't even think about it Derek or else you're just going to r
CARMEN"It is really important to me and I have to appear there this year. I can't let this chance pass me by. That is where you come in. I need you to pose as my wife so that I can get it. I don't want to deal with the hassle of getting married. Truthfully, marriage isn't for me at all. Just do a good job and you'll walk away with a guaranteed one million dollars and if you do a good job, I might just give you other benefits" Andres told me. I wanted to ask him what he wants to be on the list for. I mean, he doesn't need some yearly list that's published as a sign of his wealth right? I mean, he's really rich and I am sure that he knows. He doesn't look like someone who's that vain...I have a lot of other questions that's on my mind but the look on his face told me that he won't be entertaining any more topics on the reason why he needs a wife. I decided to just drop it there. Since he's not doing anything illegal or going to use me for illegal purposes, then I don't think that I
CARMEN"Wow!" I gasped. We haven't entered the boutique yet but I could already tell that I won't even be able to afford a handkerchief from this place. I turned to Andres. "What are we doing here?""What do you think we are here for? Of course, it's to shop for clothes for you! We need to change your entire outlook but we'll be doing that lately. I think that I'll get a personal stylist for you but for now, I think that we should get a few stuff and give the media something to talk about don't you think?" He asked and winked at me. He turned and gestured to a car packed a few feet away from us. It seems that the reporters and paparazzi who were at the restaurant with us had followed us here too. So is he doing this to give them a show? To announce that he's going to get married to me? "Don't look like that Carmen. We need to change the clothes that you are wearing for now" he told me. I looked down at the clothes that I wore and I could not help but feel extra poor today. "Hey
CARMENI looked over at the woman who had snatched the earring from me. I didn't want to cause a scene but I didn't appreciate the way she was looking at me as if I am some kind of dirt beneath her feet. It annoyed me to no end. "Excuse me Miss, but I am the one who got that first. You are being rude right now!" I said to her. I don't go looking around for trouble but that doesn't mean that I'll let someone look down on me and bully me. She looked at me and scoffed. "And who do you think you are to stop me from getting it? So what if you have it first? I said that I want it and I am going to get it. There's nothing that you can do about it. Besides, look at the way you are dressed. You clearly won't be able to afford anything in this boutique! Stop making a fool of yourself and just get lost!" She said to me. I had never been so insulted in my life. I've had a lot of people look down on me, especially in art school because of my background, but this is the first time that someone