Retribution

Diego's house was filled with tension as he, Taylor, and Anne sat around the dining table. Anne leaned forward, her brows furrowed in concern.

"What about the business?" she asked.

Diego sighed deeply. "I'm not trying to exaggerate, dear, but the business is going down.

Anne hesitated, her mind racing. "Should I speak to Thomas, or do you have any other ideas?"

"Your choice, honey," Taylor said.

Anne looked troubled, lost in thought, when Diego's cell phone rang. He glanced at the screen, then stood up to take the call.

"Hello?" Diego said into the phone. "Yes, I remember. Okay, I'll be right there in ten minutes. Thank you very much, sir."

He ended the call and turned back to his family, his confidence restored. "We have to be in a meeting, honey."

"We'll talk when we get back," Taylor replied. "There's enough time for you to resolve the issue. Goodbye, honey."

Diego and Taylor left, closing the door behind them. Anne was left alone, her thoughts swirling, when the doorbell rang. She opened it to find Mia standing there, a surprised look on her face.

"Mia? Oh my God, heavens sent you to me," Anne exclaimed. "I was actually looking for a shoulder to lean on."

"Are you going to leave me out here chatting with you?" Mia teased.

Anne quickly stepped aside. "Oh, I am so sorry for my manners. Please, come in."

Mia entered, and Anne led her to the living room where they both sat down.

"Were you expecting someone else?" Mia asked.

"I thought it was my parents. They left for a meeting a few minutes ago," Anne explained.

Mia could see the stress etched on Anne's face. "Having troubles with the business, huh? Take a break from work, Anne."

Anne shook her head. "I wish I could, Barbie doll, but I can't. Mom and Dad put their trust in me. Do you know how it feels? I'm scared of breaking their trust."

"You know what?" Mia said, trying to lighten the mood. "Why don't we get your mind off things? Let's make some hot cocoa."

Anne looked at Mia incredulously. "Are you pulling my leg or what? I'm at the end of a tiny rope... no distractions, or else I'll run out of time. I'm sorry, Mia, but I can't right now."

"But if you're swamped with work and don't take a break," Mia argued, "then there'll be a bigger distraction, and you'll eventually run out of time sooner than later. What's it going to be?"

Anne hesitated, then exhaled deeply. "Alright, fine, we have five minutes."

Mia grinned. "Ten minutes."

Anne raised an eyebrow. "Seven minutes."

"Fifteen," Mia countered.

Anne gasped. "Oh my God, is that how you negotiate, Barbie doll? I thought negotiation typically involves times going down, not up."

Mia laughed. "My negotiation is different."

The two friends burst into laughter, easing the tension.

"Alright, ten minutes," Anne agreed.

Mia playfully groaned. "Gosh, you are such a buzzkill. So, how is Thomas?"

"Well," Anne said, "if he isn't working, he's having meetings. He barely has time for himself."

"That's tough," Mia sympathized.

"Tell me about it," Anne replied.

Mia's gaze shifted to the kitchen. "Okay, let's pause for a while and talk about the ingredients. Do you have cocoa powder, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, whipped cream, and marshmallows?"

Anne shook her head. "I have none of those. My kitchen is not like your Barbie doll kitchen, Mia. My kitchen is a company, and my ingredients are documents."

Mia laughed. What do you want us to do, Anne? I wanted to take your mind off things, but it isn't working as planned."

Anne thought for a moment. "We could order pizza; it's pretty much the only food we eat around here."

Mia's eyes widened. "This explains why you're getting thinner by the day. You look like a toothbrush, Anne. You know what? Let's eat pizza and watch TV."

Anne shook her head. "We can't do that in ten minutes, Barbie doll. Okay, let's go out and eat."

Mia grinned. "This is the fourth reason I love you."

Anne raised an eyebrow. "Um... sorry for being nosy, but I wanna know. What are the first three reasons you love me?"

Mia shrugged. "How would I know?"

Anne burst into laughter, and Mia smiled at her.

"I wanted to put a smile on your face but it seems I put a laugh on your face," Mia said. "I'm glad you're happy now. Shall we?"

"Thanks for the good company, Barbie doll," Anne said, smiling warmly. "It's been months since I laughed this hard. Alright, let's go."

The friends laughed and chatted as they made their way out.

The psychiatric hospital was eerily quiet, a silence only broken by the occasional distant clatter of metal instruments or the muffled sobs of the patients within. Selina Richard sat in her cold, sterile room, lost in thoughts that swirled like a dark vortex, each one pulling her further away from the person she once was. The door creaked open, and Laura, a stern-faced doctor with an air of authority, approached her with a frown.

"You have a visitor, Miss Richard," Laura stated, her voice devoid of warmth.

Selina barely registered Laura's words as she was led to the visiting room. There, her mother, Frances, was waiting, her eyes already brimming with tears as she saw the state of her daughter. Selina's once vibrant spirit seemed to have been extinguished, leaving behind only a shadow of the girl Frances knew.

"My love," Frances began, her voice quivering as she reached out to hold her daughter's hands, "I have missed you so much. Please forgive me, but I can't get you out of here." Frances sobbed softly, the weight of her failure evident in her every word. "I tried my best to hire a good lawyer, but the judge said it's not safe to have a mentally unstable person amongst people. But I know you, Selina. I know you're not crazy. Don't worry, I'll get you out of here one way or another."

Selina lifted her head slowly, a grin forming on her lips as she spoke in a low, chilling tone, "Don't bother."

Frances stared at her daughter in shock. "Huh?" she gasped, hoping she had misheard.

"You heard me, Mom. Don't bother," Selina repeated, her voice carrying an unsettling calm.

"Love," Frances said, her concern deepening, "you've been here for years. Do you like it here? Don't you want a good job, to get married, have kids? You have a bright future ahead."

Selina's eyes darkened as she responded, her tone as cold as the room they were in, "I don't like repeating myself, Mother. I said, do not bother!"

Frances was growing increasingly alarmed. "Okay, you're starting to scare me now, love. Please, talk to me! Are you okay? Are they hurting you?"

Before Selina could answer, Laura re-entered the room, her presence cutting the moment short. "Sorry to interrupt, but time's up. Visiting hours are over."

"Please, give us a minute," Frances pleaded, desperation creeping into her voice. "I need to talk to my daughter properly."

"Ma'am, you have to cooperate with us. She is dangerous," Laura insisted, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Frances rose to her feet, her fury barely contained. "News flash, lady. She is my daughter."

"I am sorry, ma'am, but I can't do anything for you now," Laura said nonchalantly, as though she had heard it all before.

Turning to Selina, Laura said, "Walk to your room, Miss Richard."

Selina stood up without a word, walking towards the exit. Just as she reached the door, she paused, turning back to her mother with a sinister grin that made Frances's blood run cold. Selina then exited, leaving Frances reeling in confusion.

"Wait," Frances whispered to herself, "I saw something... Did Selina grin at me? She..." Her thoughts trailed off as Laura's voice brought her back to the present.

"You have to leave now, ma'am. We want to lock the building for safety," Laura instructed.

"She never grins," Frances muttered, almost to herself. "I know my daughter, I promise. Something is going on, something is definitely wrong with my love."

Laura's patience was wearing thin. "Ma'am..."

"What are you guys doing to my daughter?" Frances demanded, her voice rising in anger. "Are you hurting her? Tell me something! Speak!"

"Ma'am, do not trigger the call of security," Laura warned, her tone icy.

"Call them for all I care!" Frances yelled, her frustration boiling over. "I am coming back for my daughter, and that's a promise from a mother to her daughter." With that, Frances stormed out of the hospital, her heart heavy with worry.

Back in her room, Selina sat mumbling to herself, her mind a storm of dark thoughts. Laura barged in, her anger barely contained as she approached Selina.

"What did you tell your mother, wench?" Laura spat, her voice laced with venom. "I hope you didn't open your stupid mouth. I am asking a question."

Selina looked up at Laura, her expression devoid of any fear. "I told her I loved her," she replied nonchalantly.

The response only fueled Laura's rage. Without thinking, she slapped Selina hard across the face. "Who are you trying to fool?" she snarled. "You can fool your mother, not me. Now, for the last time, what did you tell your foolish mother?"

"Mom isn't foolish; you are," Selina shot back, her words dripping with contempt.

Shocked by Selina's audacity, Laura grabbed her arm forcefully. "What did you say? You'll be punished for that," she threatened, dragging Selina out of the room.

Laura hauled Selina into the psychiatric laboratory, the sterile room filled with ominous-looking equipment. "I guess you need another electroconvulsive therapy session," Laura sneered.

Panic flickered in Selina's eyes. "I am sorry, I was out of line. Please forgive me. I don't need that again," she begged, her voice trembling.

"Too late," Laura responded, her tone final.

Selina's demeanor changed in an instant. "Indeed," she said, her voice now steady, almost cold.

"What?" Laura barely had time to register the shift in Selina's tone before she was struck hard in the stomach. She gasped, doubling over in pain.

"You... ungrateful bitch," Laura hissed through gritted teeth.

"Ouch, that's harsh," Selina mocked, her voice now filled with dark amusement. "I thought you warned us against harsh language." She laughed, a cold, malevolent sound. "Rot in hell, Laura."

Laura collapsed to the floor, struggling to breathe. "You... are... s-s-sick," she choked out, her words barely audible as the life drained from her.

Selina checked Laura's pulse, confirming that she was dead. She stood up, her expression unreadable as she surveyed the room. A grin spread across her face.

Without hesitation, Selina turned on the fire alarm, screaming for help.

Her cries brought the other doctors rushing into the room, concern etched on their faces. The first doctor to reach her, asked what happened?

"I don't know," Selina stammered, her voice filled with feigned panic. "She... she was about to punish me when she started acting off. I think she was possessed. She stabbed herself."

Doctor 3 looked at the scene in disbelief.

Selina continued to play the part of the frightened victim. "I... I... I don't know. I am scared, I don't want to end up like her. Please, I can't stay here anymore, I hate blood. I... this can't happen to me."

Doctor 4, who had been quietly observing the situation, asked, "Where did she get the knife from?"

"Please," Selina begged, her voice trembling, "don't ask me anything, I am anxious right now. Can I... can I be alone with the female doctor for some minutes?"

Doctor 4 nodded to the others. "Take the corpse out, guys. I'll speak with Miss Richard."

As the doctors carried Laura's lifeless body out of the room, the female doctor, Doctor 4, approached Selina, who was still sobbing, though her tears were as fake as the story she had just told.

"It's alright, Miss Richard, you can talk to me," Doctor 4 said, her voice soothing.

Selina's expression changed in an instant. "Don't make it hard for yourself, or else you'll end up like Laura. Just do what I say..."

Doctor 4 froze, stunned by the sudden shift in Selina's tone. "What?" she whispered, fear creeping into her voice.

"I want to escape, and I need your help," Selina said, her voice cold and calculating. "You have to give me your uniform."

Doctor 4 took a step back, her mind racing. "You... you murdered Doctor Laura? Who are you?"

Selina's eyes narrowed. "I am the crazy girl everyone turned me into. I am not crazy, but everyone believed I was, even Doctor Laura. She treated me like trash, like I was some orphan begging for a penny. When I get out of here, I'll make sure everyone who played a part in my torture gets a chilling served dish. Unfortunately, you aren't on my list. Lucky you, huh?"

Doctor 4's fear was palpable. "What do you want?"

"It's simple," Selina said, her tone eerily calm.

She explained her plan to the female doctor, who, terrified for her life, agreed to help Selina. Selina knew she was close to achieving her freedom, and nothing, not even the blood on her hands, would stop her from getting what she wanted. The taste of freedom was within reach, and she was willing to do whatever it took to grasp it, leaving behind a trail of fear and bodies in her wake.

Selina entered the psychiatric hospital's visiting room, her eyes carefully scanning the area for security personnel and the doctor with the keys. As she assessed her surroundings, a doctor approached her, interrupting her thoughts.

"Doctor Amber, calm the patients down. The fire alarm was a false alarm," the doctor instructed, clearly stressed.

Selina nodded, maintaining the facade. "I want to take them outside for some fresh air. That will help calm them down. So, where are the keys?"

The doctor hesitated for a moment but eventually conceded. "Umm... okay, you're right," he said, handing her the keys. "Give them back when you're done."

"I will," Selina assured him, taking the keys with a hidden sense of triumph.

"Keep your guard up, Doctor Amber," the doctor added before excusing himself and leaving Selina alone with the patients.

As soon as he was out of sight, Selina's composed expression shifted into one of pure delight. "This is so interesting... heaven sent the keys to me," she muttered to herself, stifling a laugh as she exited the room, leaving the patients behind without a second thought.

Meanwhile, in the hospital's laboratory, a group of doctors discussed the mysterious circumstances surrounding Doctor Laura's death. Their conversation was interrupted by the sudden entrance of Doctor 5, who appeared flustered and anxious.

"Guys, something happened," Doctor 4 announced. "Miss Richard asked me to help her escape. She's crazy-she killed Doctor Laura and took my uniform!"

The room fell silent as the other doctors processed the shocking news. Doctor 2 was the first to react. "What? Sound the alarm and inform security to shut all the building doors immediately!"

But before the alarm could be triggered, Doctor 5 blurted out, "Wait, did you say Miss Richard? I... I gave her the keys... she... Oh my God."

Doctor 4's eyes widened in disbelief. "You gave the keys to Miss Richard?"

Doctor 5's face paled as the gravity of his mistake sank in. "We have to hurry before she escapes," he urged.

"Let's go!" Doctor 2 commanded, and the group of doctors dashed out of the room, determined to prevent Selina's escape.

Selina, now exhilarated by her successful breakout, found herself standing in front of an abandoned building. The taste of freedom was sweet on her tongue, and she couldn't help but shout out, "Free at last! In your face, Daddy! Your plan to keep me there forever FAILED!"

Back at Frances's house, the kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal. Frances was preparing lunch for the family when Richard walked in, his face a mask of concern and anger.

"What's up with you? Why the worried face?" Frances asked, glancing up from her cooking.

Richard's voice was tight with frustration. "Why did you go there? You're lucky you're alive and still in one piece."

Frances stopped what she was doing and turned to face him, her eyes narrowing. "Excuse me? Are you aware you're talking about your daughter?"

Richard didn't back down. "Your daughter has gone cuckoo. She's crazy."

Fury flashed in Frances's eyes as she snapped, "Not another word against my daughter, Richard! How dare you utter such hurtful words about your own flesh and blood?"

"The truth is bitter, honey, but our daughter needs help," Richard insisted, his tone softening slightly.

Frances could hardly believe what she was hearing. She turned back to her task, finishing the last of the lunch preparations. "Prepare something for yourself because I'm taking this food to Selina, our daughter," she added, grabbing the food flask and storming out of the kitchen, leaving Richard standing there, bewildered.

"Frances... Fra-" Richard called after her, but she was already gone. He groaned, sinking into a chair. "Ugh, it's always about that crazy girl."

At the abandoned building, Selina was settling in, trying to clean up the space when her phone rang. She answered, a mischievous smile on her lips. "Hi Jake, guess what? I'm out of hell."

"Where are you, Selina?" Jake's voice was urgent, filled with concern.

"Why?" Selina asked, her tone light.

"Why? Don't you trust me?" Jake's voice held a note of hurt.

Selina's smile faded slightly. "I trusted my father once, and look what happened. I know you want to help me, Jake, but I can't disclose my secret headquarters to anyone."

"Selina, the police are searching for you," Jake warned, his tone serious.

Selina's expression didn't waver as she feigned network issues. "Hello? Sorry, I can't hear you." Without waiting for a response, she hung up and returned to her cleaning.

"I can't disclose my secret headquarters to anyone. I can't even trust myself," she muttered to herself. Then, a glint of determination crossed her eyes as she began to plan. "Hmm... let's see, the list of things I need," she said, her voice dripping with malevolence. An evil laugh escaped her lips as she envisioned her next steps.

Frances arrived at the psychiatric hospital, anxiety evident in every step she took as she paced the room. "Where is my daughter? Someone bring me my daughter! What kind of a place is this? You don't know how to take care of patients," she shouted, her voice rising in desperation.

The doctors tried to calm her down, but it was no use. Frances was beside herself with worry. Just then, Anne entered the room, her face etched with concern.

"Auntie, I rushed here immediately I heard the news. Where is Selina?" Anne asked, hurrying over to Frances.

"She ran away," Frances sobbed, her voice thick with emotion. She turned on the doctors, her grief and anger boiling over. "She ran away because clearly, the doctors here are incompetent! If anything happens to my daughter, if... I can't even think of that. I won't be able to live without my love."

Anne, seeing the state Frances was in, quickly moved to comfort her, wrapping her arms around her in a protective embrace. "Oh no, don't worry, Auntie. Everything is going to be fine. We will find Selina," she said, trying to offer some reassurance.

But Frances shook her head, her mind racing with fear. "You don't get it, Anne. S-S-Selina... she... I think she murdered Doctor Laura. The doctors said she was responsible for the doctor's death."

Anne was stunned into silence, the shock of Frances's words leaving her momentarily speechless. "What? No, no, they must be mistaken. Why would they assume that? Was she found with a weapon?" she finally managed to ask, her voice trembling.

Frances couldn't hold back the tears any longer. "Anne, I said I think she did it. Selina grinned at me the last time I visited her. She told me to forget about helping her get out of this place. I knew something was off."

"Auntie, are you sure? Selina doesn't grin, she smiles," Anne said, trying to rationalize the situation.

"I know, I am her mother," Frances replied, her voice cracking with emotion. "I told Doctor Laura about it, but she totally ignored me. She almost called security on me."

Frances continued to pour out her heart to Anne when her phone rang. She quickly wiped away her tears and answered the call. "Hello?"

On the other end of the line, Selina paused for a moment after hearing her mother's sad voice. She decided to comfort her, at least for now. "Why are you crying, Mom? You cry too much," Selina said, her voice filled with a strange blend of affection and detachment.

"S-S-Selina? My love, where are you? Are you okay? Love, what is this? Why are you doing this? Please tell me where you are?" Frances pleaded, her voice trembling with worry.

"I was walking out of my apartment when I saw you. I'm close to you, Mother," Selina replied, her tone playful yet unsettling.

"Love, we need to talk," Frances said, trying to keep her voice steady.

"Sure, Mother, I'm listening," Selina said casually.

Frances, bracing herself for the worst, took a deep breath before asking, "What did you do? What happened here? Why, and how did you escape?"

"I want to be honest with you, Mother, but are you sure you want to hear the truth? It hurts a lot," Selina said, her tone dropping to a whisper.

"Brief me, love," Frances urged, her heart pounding.

"Yes, I murdered Laura. She was a pain in the neck, Mother. I disguised myself as a doctor and darted off. I didn't want to spend another minute in that hell of a place," Selina confessed, her voice devoid of any remorse.

Frances was stunned, unable to believe her daughter's words. She burst into tears, the reality of the situation hitting her like a freight train. "Why? Why did you do it? Where did I go wrong?"

"Uh uh, don't blame yourself, Mother, because it's not your fault. None of it is your fault. I chose this path because I am tired of everyone and everything. Anyways, how is my sweet daddy?" she asked, her tone cold.

Frances, struggling to keep her composure, responded, "Love, this isn't you. You are not my daughter."

Selina's face remained emotionless. "Correct, mother. The old Selina died. Hmm... let me say... ugh, I can't remember. I'll get back to you when I recall the age your daughter died. My name is Selina, but I am not Selina."

Anne, trying to maintain her calm, said, "Selina, we can talk about this."

Selina gasped theatrically. "Oh, the cat dragged you in already? What should I call you, my best friend? How are you? Are you married yet?"

Anne responded earnestly, "Selina, I was your best friend, I am your best friend, and I'll always be your best friend. The reason we sent you here was because of your health. We love you."

Selina sneered. "Oh, cut the crap, Anne. I am saner than you and your parents combined. I am not crazy, and you know that, but you insisted on bringing me to hell. I'll forgive you for it after serving you a dish, it's cold though." She laughed evilly.

Anne, not backing down, said, "I am not scared of you nor your threats. I am here for my best friend and her mother. I want to help you."

Selina replied sharply, "Have you tried helping yourself? Don't you remember the saying? Charity begins at home, Anne. Help yourself, your parents, your friend, Mia, before trying to help me. I wasn't crazy back then, and I am not crazy now, but I will show you all how crazy really looks like."

Frances, tears streaming down her face, asked, "Are you threatening us, love? We are here to help you."

Selina responded, "I am not threatening you guys, mom. I don't threaten; I act. You don't have to worry about your daughter; she is alive, call it rebirth."

Frances, her voice breaking, begged, "Love, please tell me how come? Why are you doing this?"

Selina's voice was filled with cold determination. "Revenge."

Frances was shocked. "Revenge?"

Selina confirmed, "Yeah. I have the list of people who played a part in my torture, but I am going to settle the scores with every single one of them. Doctor Laura has been eliminated."

Frances, horrified, said, "You are sick, Selina. How dare you open your mouth and utter such despicable words? What is wrong with you? Tell me, who is your next target?"

Selina's voice was chillingly calm. "Anne."

Frances and Anne were stunned. "What?" Frances gasped.

Selina, realizing she had frightened them, burst into laughter. "You guys are so gullible. Anne, I thought you said you weren't scared of me and my threats. Mom, sorry but I can't tell you that."

Anne, trying to reason, said, "You can stop now before it's too late, Selina."

Selina's tone turned menacing. "It's too late, Anne. I have become a bloodthirsty monster, and no one can stop me."

Frances, sobbing uncontrollably, pleaded, "You are not a monster, love, and it's not too late to stop. You made a mistake; it's a mistake."

Selina's voice was firm. "No it's not, mom. This is not a mistake; it was destined to happen. Take care of yourself, mom, Anne, goodbye."

She ended the call, leaving Frances crying and Anne deep in thought. Anne tried to comfort her aunt, "Auntie, don't cry; we can get to Selina. I'll track her phone number."

Later, at an abandoned building, Selina extracted the SIM card from her phone and destroyed it. As she tossed the broken pieces aside, she murmured to herself, "I see what you are trying to do, Anne, but I am smarter than that. I need to get out of here and find a place to live. Ugh, money-I guess I have to steal from my sweet daddy. That won't be enough, so I'll also rob the bank. Oh, Mr. Joe is rich too. Man, I'll be a multi-trillionaire."

She burst into hysterical laughter, savoring her own twisted plans.

Back at Frances's house, Richard was furiously yelling at the doctors after hearing about Selina's escape. Helen walked in, trying to calm his nerves. "You all are incompetent fools. You can't handle a girl!" Richard fumed.

Helen tried to soothe him. "Don't stress yourself too much, Rich. Look on the bright side; you won some billions."

Richard, still agitated, hung up angrily and slumped into a chair. "We paid them for nothing. Well, you're right. I should look on the bright side and celebrate my victory."

Helen smiled, agreeing. "Exactly my point!"

Richard nodded and said, "Two glasses of whiskey, then."

Helen left the room to fetch the whiskey, while Richard contemplated how to handle the remaining payments to the doctors.

In the living room of Frances' house, Selina was sitting with her mother, Frances, having a conversation.

"Mom, I'm not a baby anymore," Selina said.

Frances smiled softly. "You'll always be my baby, love."

Selina sighed. "I know why the sweet talk. You're going to work again, aren't you?"

"Just for two days, sweetheart. You know your father doesn't have a job. I'm doing this to support our family. I'll get you the money you asked for," Frances assured her before exiting the room.

As soon as her mother left, Selina muttered to herself, "Mom keeps encouraging that womanizer..."

Just then, Richard walked in. "Why aren't you in school?"

"Do you even care?" Selina shot back.

Richard's eyes narrowed. "Have you started smoking? How dare you talk to me like that? You're such a brat."

Selina met his gaze defiantly. "Actually, it's the other way around."

Fuming, Richard struck her across the face. "Some nerve you've got, huh?"

Selina winced and muttered, "I'm sorry."

"You'd better be, brat," Richard sneered before storming out.

A moment later, Frances returned. "Sorry for the delay, love. I got a call from work."

"No problem, Mom. Just take care. Bye," Selina said, waving goodbye to her mother.

At school, Miss Lizzy was teaching her class. "So, each element in a compound constitutes its own particular portion of the compound's mass. It means..." She paused and noticed Selina wasn't paying attention. "Selina, what did I just say?"

Before Selina could answer, she pointed at Sophia. "Miss Lizzy, it's Sophia. She threw my book out the window."

Miss Lizzy frowned. "Are you lying to cover up your mistakes, Selina?"

"No, I'm sorry, Miss Lizzy, but it's not my fault," Selina tried to explain.

"Out of my class," Miss Lizzy ordered sternly.

"Please forgive me, Miss Lizzy," Selina pleaded, but before she could say more, Sophia sneered, "Are you deaf?"

"But..." Selina began, but she knew it was useless. She exited the classroom sadly.

After Selina left, Anne stood up. "Miss Lizzy, it was Sophia's fault."

Michael smirked. "Who asked for your opinion?"

"I wasn't talking to you either," Anne shot back.

"Enough, students. I am teaching," Miss Lizzy snapped.

"Sorry, Miss Lizzy," Anne replied quietly.

Back at Frances' house, Selina came home, visibly upset.

"Mom, Mom!" she called out.

Richard answered her coldly. "Are you blind? She isn't home."

Selina's face fell. "I was sent out of class today, Dad, and I didn't do anything wrong."

"Deal with it yourself," Richard responded dismissively.

At that moment, Helen burst into the room. "Rich, I came... What is this brat doing at home?"

"I am not a brat," Selina mumbled.

Richard's voice was harsh. "Shut up and go to your room."

"Dad, instead of looking for a job, you're at home inviting your mistress..." Selina started, but Helen cut her off.

"What did you say?" Helen asked, her voice icy.

Selina didn't back down. "...while Mom goes out to work."

Richard's temper flared. "I won't say this again! Go to your room, brat!" he yelled.

"I am not a brat!" Selina cried before running to her room, tears streaming down her face.

Helen shook her head, watching her go. "She's got some nerve, huh?"

In her room, Selina tried calling her mom.

"Please, Mom, pick up," she whispered, but all she heard was a network message.

"The number you are trying to call is not reachable. Please try again later," the automated voice said.

Selina sighed, feeling even more alone. "Mom, I miss you..."

Meanwhile, at Diego's house, Taylor and Diego were waiting when Anne finally walked in.

"Thank God you're home, honey. Take care of the house; we have an urgent meeting," Taylor said quickly.

"If anyone calls, we're in a meeting," Diego added before they both hurriedly exited.

Left alone, Anne sighed to herself. "Guess I have to order pizza again... I'm so tired of eating pizza."

Later that night, Selina, still distraught, found herself at the police station.

"Sir, my father is hitting me," she cried to the officer at the desk.

Kelvin didn't even look up. "Just get out of here."

"Please, my mom is not home," Selina begged.

"Who cares?" James, another officer, muttered.

Selina's voice shook as she pleaded, "The police should."

Kelvin's tone was mocking. "Are you trying to teach us our job? Who do you think you are, a ten-year-old dictating to us?"

"I am fifteen, but I am sorry," Selina said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Scram, brat," James said, waving her away.

"Please, please help me," Selina sobbed as she left the station, still crying.

Kelvin shook his head in annoyance. "Who cares about her and her father?"

"Just came to disturb the peace of this place," James agreed.

The next day, back at school, Anne and Selina were sitting together in the classroom, talking quietly.

"Sorry about yesterday, Selina. I told the teacher, but she refused to listen," Anne said.

"Thanks for trying," Selina replied, trying to sound grateful.

"It's nothing. What are friends for?" Anne smiled.

But their moment was interrupted when Michael and his friends walked in, mocking Selina.

"Hey Selina, did you eat well today? I'll have your food then," Michael sneered.

Selina glared at him. "Give me back my food flask."

"Come get it," Michael taunted.

Sophia, who had just entered, smirked. "Don't trouble her today, Michael. She has no strength to fight. Here are the pads you ordered, Selina."

The class erupted into laughter at Sophia's cruel joke.

"I didn't... I..." Selina stammered, her face turning red with embarrassment. Unable to take it anymore, she rushed out of the classroom.

Anne stood up angrily. "What's your problem? Aren't you ashamed of yourself?"

Sophia waved her off. "Scram, insignificant."

Michael and his friends laughed loudly, enjoying the chaos they had caused.

Miss Lizzy entered the classroom, immediately noticing the commotion. "What happened? Why is the class so rowdy?"

Sophia quickly lied. "Selina was trying to pick a fight with me because of yesterday."

Michael added, "She is a mad girl."

Miss Lizzy frowned. "I'll speak to the principal," she said before exiting the classroom angrily.

At Frances' house, Frances was sitting on the couch, talking to Richard, who looked downcast.

"Richard, were you lucky today?" Frances asked gently.

Richard shook his head. "No job for me. They don't even want to give me a chance."

"Don't worry, I'm trying my best to support us..." Frances started to say, but she was interrupted when Selina burst into the room, crying, and hugged her tightly.

"Mom!" Selina cried out.

Frances immediately wrapped her arms around her daughter. "Love, what's wrong? Why are you crying?"

"I don't ever want to go to school again. I graduated today," Selina sobbed.

Frances looked shocked. "Oh my God, did they expel you?"

"No, Mom. Some of my classmates humiliated me," Selina explained, her voice trembling.

"What happened?" Frances asked, concern written all over her face.

"I don't know how to tell you, but I don't want to ever go to school again," Selina said, breaking down into tears again.

Frances held her daughter close. "Don't worry, love. I'll have a talk with the school head."

At that moment, Anne entered, looking concerned.

"Good afternoon, Aunt," Anne greeted politely.

"Good afternoon, Anne. How are you doing?" Frances asked.

"I'm fine, Aunt," Anne replied, then added, "And your parents?"

"They're also fine," Anne said before turning to Selina. "Selina..."

"I can't face anyone, Anne. Not even you," Selina said, turning away.

"It was Sophia's fault, not yours. Don't let them get to you," Anne encouraged her.

"It's too late because they already did. I'm never going to that school again," Selina replied sadly.

Frances looked at Anne. "Talk to her, Anne. Let's go, Richard," she said before leading Richard out of the room.

Anne turned back to Selina, her voice gentle. "Selina, you are my best friend and the purest soul I've ever met. Always walk with your head held high."

"Thanks for the motivation, Anne, but I can't do as you say. They will make fun of me," Selina said, her voice barely audible.

"That's their problem, not ours. I'm with you, Selina," Anne said firmly.

Selina hugged Anne, feeling a little better. "Thank you, girlfriend."

Anne wiped away Selina's tears. "Do not cry anymore."

"I won't,"

Frances entered the room just as Anne was leaving. She looked at Selina with concern.

"How did it go? Do you still want to change schools?" Frances asked gently.

Selina shook her head, trying to smile. "I'll miss Anne, Mom."

"So?" Frances prompted, waiting for her daughter's decision.

"I won't change schools," Selina finally decided, her voice firm.

Frances beamed with pride. "That's my girl."

"I love you, Mom," Selina said, her voice softening.

"Love you too, sweetheart," Frances replied warmly.

At that moment, Richard walked into the room, catching the end of their conversation. "I'll accompany my daughter to school tomorrow," he announced.

Frances looked at him in surprise. "Really?"

"Yes, no one should bully my daughter," Richard said with conviction.

"Alright, if that's sorted, then I'll go make lunch," Frances said, pleased with the decision, and exited the room.

Selina looked up at her father, a small smile playing on her lips. "Really, Dad?"

Richard nodded. "Sure, I promise."

Selena's smile widened. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Richard replied, a rare tenderness in his tone.

Anne walked into her house to find her parents, Taylor and Diego, waiting for her. The atmosphere was tense as Taylor immediately confronted her.

"Where are you coming from?" Taylor asked sharply.

Anne tried to deflect the tension. "You mean, how was school today?"

Diego wasn't having it. "Don't try to act smart with us."

Anne sighed, feeling the weight of their scrutiny. "Come on, Dad, Mom, I'm not a baby anymore. I'm fifteen and will be turning sixteen next year."

Taylor wasn't swayed. "That doesn't answer my question."

Anne decided to be honest. "I went to Selina's..."

Taylor's face tightened with disapproval. "That girl."

"She is my friend, Mom," Anne defended.

Taylor's eyes narrowed. "Has she been teaching you to disrespect your parents?"

Anne's frustration bubbled over. "I've always done everything you asked. Please let me live my life in peace." Without waiting for a response, she turned and exited angrily.

Taylor called after her, but Anne was already gone.

In the school cafeteria, Selina and Anne were seated together, trying to enjoy a quiet lunch.

"Do you care for salad, Anne?" Selina offered.

Before Anne could respond, Sophia walked by and deliberately knocked her food to the ground.

"Oops, my bad. Didn't see you there," Sophia said with mock innocence as everyone around them laughed.

Anne's anger flared. "What's your problem, Sophia? What's your deal?"

Sophia shot back, "Hey, watch your mouth."

Selina tugged at Anne's arm, her voice shaky. "Let's go, Anne."

Without waiting for a response, Selina rushed out of the cafeteria, trying to escape the humiliation.

Sophia sneered after them. "Come on, run after your chicken friend."

Anne glared at Sophia before following Selina. "She's not a chicken," she muttered, storming out angrily.

Outside in the school compound, Selina sat alone, tears streaming down her face. She whispered to herself, "Mom, please come save me."

Anne found her moments later and quickly approached. "Don't let her get to you," Anne urged, trying to comfort her friend.

But they weren't alone for long. Michael, Sophia, and their friends appeared, smirking and ready to torment Selina further.

"Let me join the chit-chat," Michael said sarcastically.

Anne turned to face them. "Why are you stalking us?"

Sophia dismissed her. "Not you, Anne."

Michael focused on Selina, his tone mocking. "Selina, how did the salad taste?"

Selina's voice was barely above a whisper. "Please, leave me alone."

Michael sneered, "Crybaby," and scoffed.

Anne, trying to shield Selina, said firmly, "Stop it."

Michael wasn't deterred. "Hey, get lost," he snapped, pushing Selina into the mud. He looked down at her with a cruel grin. "Look, you're dirty."

Laughter erupted from the group, but Selina spotted Miss Lizzy approaching in the distance.

"Miss Lizzy..." Selina called out, her voice desperate.

Miss Lizzy arrived just in time to see the scene. Her expression hardened. "Causing trouble again, Selina?"

Anne quickly defended her friend. "Miss Lizzy, Michael pushed her."

But Miss Lizzy wasn't convinced. "There must be a valid reason for that. She's a troublemaker."

"That's not true," Anne protested.

Selina, tears running down her cheeks, tried to explain. "I didn't do anything, Miss Lizzy."

But Miss Lizzy had already made up her mind. "Come with me," she said sternly, grabbing Selina by the arm and leading her away.

Selina's cries echoed as they disappeared down the hall.