'd heard from girls he'd dated back in college. The deal was tempting, though. Anyone in my position would reconsider it, especially given how dire things had become. My little clo

in my life. Backing out of the deal meant condemning my aunt to death, and I couldn't bear to shoulder that guilt. "Mia, you won't understand," I said, my voice firm but strained. "Marrying Liam is the only way to buy our freedom from this misery. Poverty has consumed us for years, and I can't keep living like this." But the words felt hollow, even to me. I wasn't happy with where I'd landed in life. I was a graduate, yet I couldn't even secure a well-paying job. I thought of Aunt Janet's face, of the sacrifices she'd made for me. It was my turn to repay her kindness, even if it meant forfeiting my happiness. Mia, however, refused to relent. "We'll manage, Lizzy," she insisted. "We can take multiple jobs, save every penny, and help Aunt Janet ourselves. You don't need Liam. You don't need his money to have a voice in this world." Her words struck a chord. For the first time, I hesitated. Could I do it? Could I fight against the odds and keep my dignity intact? I turned back to Mia. "I won't marry Liam," I said finally, my voice trembling with uncertainty. "We'll do this ourselves." Mia smiled-a genuine smile that felt like the first ray of hope in weeks. She hurried back into the hospital, her renewed determination evident. Meanwhile, I started applying for jobs everywhere, submitting resumes to any company that might take me. Out of dozens of applications, only one responded-a modest position as a secretary. "It's better than nothing," I thought as I prepared for the interview. I woke up early, unwilling to risk being late for my one shot at employment. I made breakfast, reciting the Lord's Prayer under my breath. This wasn't just an interview-it was a battle, and I needed all the strength I could muster. My outfit was simple: a