But at this moment, the gaze projected by Lizzy across the table seemed to merge with the look she gave me five years ago. At that time, I planned to escape the village and attend university, but Lizzy stood in the doorway, staring into my eyes.
A sudden chill ran down my spine.
At her age, young girls still struggled to conceal their emotions well. However, despite the faint smile on her face, Lizzy's eyes couldn't hide the malice brewing within.
For the past five years, I had been unable to comprehend why, despite meticulously planning everything, I was still discovered by my family.
If it weren't for my teacher's timely intervention, I might never have escaped this secluded village nestled in the mountains.
I would have been forced to marry an old man by my mother, condemned to a life of laundry, cooking, and childbearing, a fate sealed without reprieve.
Under the pitch-black sky, clutching my ID, I made my way out.
A soft voice echoed from behind, "Auntie, where are you off to?"
Cold sweat trickled down my back as I frantically scanned my surroundings. Only after confirming no one else was present did I exhale deeply.