Prologue
Lavelle’s trembling hand inched towards the call button, her weak body struggling against the weight of her movements. The worn-out bed wheels screeched loudly, filling the room with their grating sound. Despite her frustration, she couldn’t extend her reach enough to touch the button. Annoyance flashed across her face as she surrendered, abandoning her futile attempt to seek help.
A few minutes later, a young man walked into the room, his height commanding attention as he stood tall at 178 centimetres. A mocking smile played across his face, clearly directed at Lavelle.
Lavelle’s tone dripping with sarcasm couldn’t help but ask, “What brings you here?”
The man’s response cut through the air, laced with disdain.
“Don’t you ever get tired of this place?” he scoffed, his voice dripping with accusation.
Her gaze turned inward, contemplating the emotions that plagued her. With a tinge of uncertainty, she pondered aloud, “Mark, could it be that you’re alluding to the profound sense of ennui I experience? The line between mere boredom and the overwhelming burnout that permeates my existence has become so blurred that I can no longer discern one from the other.”
Seated on the chair next to her bed, Mark leaned in, his concerned eyes locked onto hers.
“You’re aware of yesterday’s events when you impulsively jumped into the river. As a consequence, your mother has experienced several fainting episodes. Please refrain from being oblivious and self-centred about your own life. It’s crucial to remember that some individuals endure even more challenging circumstances.”
Lavelle let out a frustrated groan, her voice tinged with bitterness. “It’s easy to say that when you have a loving and supportive family.”
Mark’s response dripped with irritation as he retorted, “And what exactly is your desired course of action? Persist in embracing death while clinging to the belief that reincarnation will provide a solution?”
Lavelle’s voice quivered with a hint of contemplation as she leaned closer, her eyes searching for meaning.
“Before I offer my response, allow me to inquire about the essence of existence itself. What is the purpose of living?”
Lavelle’s eyes narrowed as she leaned forward, her voice low and firm. “Give me the answer,” she said.
“Family is everything,” he said, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips.
“Mark Watermelon, don’t play with my feelings! You do realise how messed up my life is. You say that because you’re wealthy, from an old money family, and so on!” Lavelle scowled under her breath.
Mark placed a hand on the Lavelle’s shoulder and softly said, “This is for your own good.”
“Which part?” she asked, Lavelle’s eyebrows furrowed and eyes scanning the room for clues.
“Your family and friends surround you daily with love and support.” I pointed out the mistake, “You didn’t seem to realise it.”
Lavelle appeared emotionless. “How do I recognise it?”
Mark’s eyes rolled as Lavelle went on and on about something that seemed trivial.
Lavelle Wynstella crossed her arms and glared at the ground, refusing to meet his gaze.
Mark’s voice tinged with frustration and desperation. “As you walk through your main house’s door, your family members rush towards you with open arms, eager to welcome you back home.”
Lavelle crossed her arms and turned away, refusing to engage in the conversation.
She looked around the room, checking to ensure everything was in place.
“Lavelle,” Mark voiced. “You see smiles and hear laughter when you enter your house. People greet you warmly and ask how you’re doing. They enjoy spending time with you and appreciate your company. Their eyes light up, and they gather around you, eager to spend time with you and make you feel valued.”
Tears streamed down Lavelle’s face as she clutched her chest, feeling the ache of betrayal. “I couldn’t help but wonder why they’d put me through such pain if they truly cared for me. As a child, I often longed for the comforting embrace of a loving family, but it seemed to elude me.”
Mark’s shoulders slumped as he exhaled deeply. “You can’t escape your problems by running away.”
“Do you think that living in a state of chaos can solve the problem?” Lavelle gave Mark a long, hard look. “Mark I just wanna live without going through any more heartache, man. If I can’t find joy in life, might as well kick the bucket.”
“Where do you want to go anyway?” Mark looked at Lavelle.
“Wherever it is, the important thing is that I can feel the ultimate tranquilly.” Lavelle sighed.
Mark rose from his seat. Mark locked his gaze on Lavelle’s eyes, their indecisiveness reflected in the lingering glaze.
“Daniella and I constructed a cabin deep within the wilderness. Can you take me there?” Lavelle tugged at Mark’s arm and applied pressure, giving it a firm squeeze.
“I urge you to reconsider your decision before it becomes something you regret.” Mark gently touched the back of Lavelle’s hand, urging her to think positively right away.
“I lack emotions! How then could I come to the realization of this fact? Fuck it out about regret.”
Mark groaned as he listened to Lavelle’s unreasonable complaint. “Lavelle Wynstella, how much longer will you continue with this behavior? Please, try to comprehend this just once! Your extended family has been anxiously waiting for you back at home!”
“I don’t care! Have you prepared all our gear?” Lavelle’s eyes struck Mark’s eyes like a lightning
Mark casually remarked, “I didn’t bring anything, but if it’s your dream, I’ll grant it for you.”
Mark swiftly approached Lavelle, grasped her hand, and subsequently, she lost consciousness again. Mark promptly departed the room.
Mark returned and lifted Lavelle a few minutes later, moving her to a safer place.
“The sun continues to shine brightly, despite occasionally receiving criticism for its intense heat. Why are you willing to give up so much?” Mark expressed.
Lavelle awoke inside Mark’s carriage, finding her waist securely bound by a robust rope.
“Did I happen to doze off during the journey?”
“Yes. you do.”
Lavelle gazed upwards as she spoke, “Mark, have you ever wondered why the sun continues to shine? It is because the sun serves as the life-giving force for everyone. However, I, on the other hand, am not their source of life.”
“Why do you hold such thoughts?” Mark murmured without turning his head.
“It’s quite simple, Mark. They only require my presence when they are in need of money. However, when I find myself penniless, they display no concern or care towards me whatsoever,” Lavelle uttered with a stifled sob, struggling to hold back tears.
Mark swallowed hard as they ventured deeper into the forest, where an ever-increasing silence enveloped them.
“By the way,” Lavelle piped up, “How did you manage to take me out without anyone finding out? And how did I fall asleep all this time?”
Mark choked in shock, struggling to comprehend the situation.
“Why are you so quiet, Mark?” Lavelle firmly grasped Mark’s shoulder.
Mark turned his head and let out a chuckle. “We’re nearly there, so brace yourself. It seems that Daniella has been here since last night. And–”
“You changed the subject incredibly quickly. Is there something I’m not aware of?” Lavelle inquired, seeking clarification.
“I have nothing to hide, Lavelle. I mean, I disabled their electricity and rescued you from that situation,” Mark explained.
“Really?”
“Yeah.”
“Ah, we have finally arrived,” Mark said as he gently set Lavelle down and opened the barbed-wired fence.
Daniella, who had been standing at the top of the cabin, quickly descended the stairs.
“What on earth are you doing, Mark?” Daniella approached Lavelle and Mark swiftly.
“What did I do wrong, Daniella? I was simply taking our friend to find a place where she would feel comfortable,” Mark shrugged and motioned for me to enter the cabin area first.
“You’re out of your mind,” Daniella snapped and forcefully pushed Mark.
“What did I do that was wrong?” Mark raised his eyebrows in confusion.
“You removed Lavelle from the hospital, and you’re still asking what you did wrong?” Daniella growled. “You’re a complete nutter.”
“You’re right, I’m a big fan of nuts. Did you bring any peanut butter?” Mark winked at Daniella, but she swiftly elbowed him in the chest.
“What are you planning to do if something serious happens to Lavelle? Have you even considered it?” Daniella punched Mark’s shoulder once again.
Lavelle paused halfway up the stairs that led to the cabin’s porch, then turned around, wearing a somber expression.
“Forget it, Daniella. I persuaded Mark to bring me here. I’m tired of listening to all this senseless chatter. I despise it.”
“But why, Lavelle? You’ve only been awake for a day, and you already want to leave your treatment? Are you in your right mind?” Daniella caught up with Lavelle and tugged on her hand, demanding a reasonable explanation.
“What else do you want to ask, Dani? I’ve already explained everything. I’m exhausted from all this madness.” Lavelle let go of Daniella’s hand and went into the cabin, sitting listlessly in the living room.
“But you’re not suggesting running away from the hospital, are you? Lavelle, you need intensive care. You fell into a very deep river. It’s highly likely that you have severe internal injuries,” Daniella said, crossing her arms and insisting.
Mark entered the room and let out a sigh. “Oh, come on, ladies. You should grab a nice snack or a warm drink because we can already see clouds on the horizon.”
“Damn it, Mark, why don’t you ever take this issue seriously?” Daniella snorted, taking a seat on one of the sofas.
“I do care about everything. That’s why I brought Lavelle here. I know it might be risky, but I’ve packed plenty of medicines and medical supplies that might be necessary,” Mark explained, handing his backpack to Daniella.
Daniella rubbed her temples, feeling exasperated.
“Damn it, Mark. Did you steal all this stuff?” Daniella shook her head disapprovingly.
“I didn’t steal it. I bought it,” Mark sighed, defending himself.
Lavelle stood up, clearly tired of their constant arguments. “If you two are going to keep fighting, at least let me rest in my room.”
“Lavelle!” Mark called out to her, trying to stop her from leaving.
“Wait, haven’t you had lunch yet?” Mark muttered, realising his oversight.
Lavelle turned her head and raised her eyebrows. “Did you buy lunch?”
“No, I didn’t. But I’m sure our chickens are laying eggs. I’ll check,” Mark said as he got up and headed outside.
Daniella chuckled. “So, you’re planning to fry them yourself? I can’t even imagine how those eggs would turn out.”
“The shape of the omelette may not be important; what truly matters is having lunch, isn’t it?” Mark shrugged indifferently.
“Well, I guess it’s better than going hungry. Look at those chickens. I’ll find some pans to fry them.”
Lavelle left the room and ascended to the cabin’s second floor. She made her way to a chamber where she stored some exquisite wine. There, she selected three bottles and swiftly consumed them in a single gulp.
Lavelle found herself coughing in despair, reflecting on a life plagued by perpetual chaos.
The unfaithfulness of her dad, the distressing episodes of domestic violence, and the relentless bullying she endured from her supposed friends at school had left her feeling utterly shattered.
The overwhelming insanity of it all led her to yearn for the release of death, wishing the grim reaper would simply claim her life.
She felt a profound emptiness, devoid of any affection or appreciation from those around her, including her own family.
“Lavelle!”
