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CHAPTER 2 New Home

My heart raced and my palms began to sweat as realization settled in. Could this be my chance? "Really?" I questioned, barely able to contain the hope that was bubbling up within me. Lady Kennedy's kind gaze never wavered as she looked into my eyes and said, "I know you don't trust me, but I am offering it to you - wholeheartedly." Nodding, I thought back to all the times I had prayed for a good life - maybe this was finally my answer! But even with such a generous offer, I didn't want to abuse her kindness - so I took her hand and held it. Her smile radiated warmth and understanding.

"I won't abuse your kindness," I told her firmly. "I'm willing to work for you in return."

Kennedy simply smiled and nodded. "Then let's get ready - we're leaving today!"

Aria stared at us as we came back from Lady Kennedy's car. Her eyes widened when she noticed the luxurious vehicle behind us.

"Is she rich?!"

Turning towards Aria sadly, I knew it was time to tell her the truth. "Yes Aria, she is." Taking a deep breath, I continued. "And...I think I might be going with her."

Aria immediately tensed up and bit her lip before finally nodding in understanding. Tears welled up in her eyes as she forced out a soft "I'm happy for you Piper." Before either of us could say anything else, Kennedy stepped forward and began to caress my shoulder reassuringly. Aria understood; this had always been our dream - it was finally time for each of us to choose our paths.

A single tear streamed down my face as I watched Aria walk away from me, her head held high despite the uncertain future that awaited her. I wanted to take it all back; the adoption, the clothes, the home. Anything for her to stay with me, in a place where she was accepted and loved.

I hugged her one last time, firmly planting my promises into her soul. That I would find her one day, and we'd shop together like old times. A promise of hope in times of despair.

"Good luck", I said, "Maybe you'll be lucky enough to meet again."

The wind whistled lowly around us as if it were saying its goodbye. Our time together was short-lived, our friendship a fleeting reminder that life is unpredictable and often backed by fate.

My tears fell freely as we drove away into the night, the weight of Aria's departure bearing down heavily upon my heart.

"Are you ok?" Kennedy questioned me.

"Yes, I'm just sad because Aria and I might not be able to see each other again."

"Dear, maybe the two of you can meet up. I won't arrest you! You're still free to do whatever it is that you choose. I just want to help," she reassured me.

My lips curled into a smile. "May God bless you more Kennedy. You're an amazing person."

"Thank you, love. It's not often someone does something for another these days. Like you helping me, so now I'm helping you too. I don't have a husband anymore and my three sons have left home already. So I want to help make sure you have a life partner."

"Oh! Thank you very much, Kennedy."

I was filled with joy as I reflected on how luck had been on my side during the last few years on the streets. At nineteen, this was the happiest I'd ever been feeling.

We only drove for a few minutes before arriving at what could only be described as a mansion! The building was luxurious and worthy of its name!

"Wow!" I was stunned! It looks like a wonderland!

The many roses and different kinds of flowers gave off such a stunning display. Guards also occupied the entrance gate, meaning no one could enter without being invited first.

"Look, this is where you'll stay – especially since there's such an amazing beach view!" Kennedy added in excitement.

"Wow! Seriously? There's a beach here?" My eyes opened wide in surprise.

"Yes, dear. This property of mine is expansive and reaches out to the end where the vast ocean meets land – creating such captivating scenery," she answered happily.

My energy levels skyrocketed when we finally arrived and parked at our destination. I almost leaped from the car in excitement! Kennedy smiled warmly at me when she too exited the vehicle and gestured for me to follow her inside. "Make yourself at home," she said reassuringly.

Just then, another fancy car pulled up and parked in front of us. A man stepped out looking incredibly handsome; could it be…? Before I could even finish my thought, my jaw had already dropped open!

The man saw me, but instead of speaking to me, he went straight to Kennedy. There was no hesitation in his embrace and I suddenly felt a jolt of jealousy surge through me.

I bit my lip and turned away, cursing my naivety while they talked about something that had nothing to do with me.

When the moment ended, Kennedy reached out her hand toward me. "She's so kind," said the man, admiration in his voice. And then his gaze fell on me, taking in my dirt-streaked skin and unkempt hair. I felt exposed and embarrassed, wishing not for the first time that I could just disappear.

But then he smiled at me and offered his hand in introduction. "Nice to meet you," he said briefly before dropping it away.

Kennedy smiled at us both and invited me inside their grand mansion. An assistant immediately approached Kennedy to take her away and she gave them strict orders - feed and bathe Piper!

I couldn't believe it; a life of servitude within these walls wasn't part of my plan. But the idea of facing those guys fully naked every day made my heart thrill with anticipation.

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