4 Danger

Moonlight bathed the large estate, giving it an otherworldly appeal. A two storied cottage was located in the middle with a large balcony on the second story.

A girl could be seen lying on one of the benches in the balcony with a hand stretched towards the sky. "I knew this was going to happen. I'd even planned for it but why does it hurt," mused Mahiya when suddenly a white Persian cat jumped on her stomach. "Danger! Where did you come from? I didn't even hear you," said Mahiya. The cat shot her a look as if to say, "Is it my fault that you are so inferior? Now serve me," and nudged Mahiya's hand.

Smiling she began to scratch Danger and looked back up at the moon. "Danger, do you think anyone will accept me as I am? Will I ever have a family of my own?" Mahiya stood and walked to the balcony railing. Danger yowled at the unexpected uprooting from his perch and left with a swish of his tail.

"I wish you had given me a name to go with rather than this estate Mr Sen."

"Mahiya, why is Danger shredding your curtains?" Mahiya turned around and saw her uncle stroll in. "Uncle! You're back," said Mahiya as he walked towards the man only to be swept up in a bear hug. Mahiya swore she heard her ribs creak.

"I missed you so much, my dear."

"C.. can't...brea... breathe," wheezed out a feeble voice. The man promptly released the poor girl and looked at her as she took in much needed air.

"Honestly, must you hug me so? I swear I heard my ribs creak." Mahiya huffed. "Hush you. Let me look at my darling girl," said Liu Rong. Mahiya felt warmth bloom inside her.

Liu Rong was the only parental figure she had ever known. The man left the Liu family when the refused to accept Mahiya and cut all ties with them when the elders disowned her mother, Liu Li. He had fed his share of food to her, sheltered her and comforted her. He blazed through obstacles and created his own empire, all to support their little family. Mahiya's last name may be Sen but in her heart Liu Rong was her father.