Chapter 5 – A Heart That Carries Everything
I felt like time froze as I stared at him. For a moment, everything stood still, his eyes, the silence between us, and the way my heart pounded louder than I could breathe. I quickly looked away and forced myself to focus back on the painting in front of me.
What's wrong with you, Juliet? I whispered inside my mind, biting my lower lip as my fingers nervously held the brush.
I glanced down at my phone. The time blinked back at me: 3:40 PM.
"You have somewhere to go?" he asked with that charming, gentle smile that made my chest tighten.
"Yes," I nodded, putting on my best polite smile. "I have somewhere to be now."
"Alright then," he replied, still smiling. "We can continue next week."
"Of course. I'll be here," I said as I packed up my things. My fingers were a little shaky as I zipped my bag. I gave him a quick goodbye, not letting my eyes linger too long, and made my way out.
As I stepped outside, the warm breeze greeted me. My driver stood waiting, and he opened the car door as I approached. I sank into the seat and exhaled, pulling out my phone. I dialed Mr. Landon's number.
"Hello, Mr. Landon."
"Hello, Juliet. How are you?"
"I'm fine, sir. I just wanted to let you know—I'll be going on the business trip with you."
"Of course, Juliet. You made a good decision," he said warmly. "I'll see you next week. We'll go with my jet, okay?"
"Yes, sir. See you next week."
I ended the call and placed the phone on my lap.
"Take me home," I said quietly.
"Okay, boss," the driver replied as we pulled out onto the road.
The drive was quiet. I watched the city blur past through the window, my thoughts miles away.
Oh God… guide me through this, I whispered in my heart. I hope my brother won't be angry with me.
When we arrived at the house, I stepped out slowly, my mind heavy with thoughts. I climbed the steps and entered the house, walking straight to my room. I didn't even greet anyone—I just wanted to breathe.
Inside my room, I headed for the bathroom. As I stood before the mirror, I stared at my reflection. My hand rose to touch my hair, then dropped again. I didn't know why I felt this nervous, but I did.
Why does it feel like everything is about to change?
I never wanted this kind of attention or involvement. I always kept my life low-key, quiet… hidden. I avoided things that could put me in the spotlight or make me feel vulnerable.
But now…
I sighed deeply and kept staring at myself.
I don't want to disappoint my family. I really don't.
Being the first daughter wasn't just a title. It was a heavy crown. Since I lost my mum at fifteen, I had to step into her shoes. I had to become everything to my younger siblings—a sister, a mother, a protector, and sometimes even a provider.
And Dad? He was never there. Not really.
That meant uncles and aunties were always watching me… judging… expecting.
It's not easy being the first daughter. You carry everything—dreams that aren't yours, burdens that shouldn't be yours, and fears you're too young to face.
"I can't disappoint them," I whispered out loud. "I just… can't."
I stepped into the shower and let the cold water run down my body. My eyes closed as I tilted my head back. For a moment, I just stood there, letting the stream wash away the pressure, the tears I didn't cry, and the thoughts I didn't voice.
When I finished, I wrapped myself in a towel and walked to the wardrobe. I reached for my most comfortable clothes—soft cotton joggers and an oversized hoodie. I slipped them on and walked over to my bed.
I lay down slowly, staring up at the ceiling.
My room was quiet, but my mind was loud.
"Oh God, please," I whispered, voice breaking. "I'm begging… help me through this."
My eyes slowly closed. I didn't know if sleep would come, but I hoped peace would.