Chapter Four

The man was running in agony, desperately seeking ways to extinguish the flames. Unfortunately, no one came to his aid, as they were afraid of the fire and chose to stay back.

Selma gasped in consternation as she gazed at the man who was now completely burnt

As she looked around and noticed the dwindling crowd, she couldn't help but wonder if she was truly possessed. The anger on their faces had now turned to fear.

Since then they avoided her like plague and the news that she burnt someone to death was all over.

PRESENT

Elizabeth was a source of solace for her daughter Selma, offering words of encouragement and urging her to maintain a positive outlook and unwavering resilience. After a brief moment of hesitation, Selma acquiesced, wiping away her tears and summoning her inner strength. Elizabeth's striking physical presence commanded attention, standing tall with her captivating chocolate complexion and hair that cascaded gracefully down to her shoulders, immaculately combed and styled. Selma, on the other hand, had opted for a more understated look, donning a simple but elegant red top paired with black trousers and a matching jacket. Seeking her mother's approval, Selma awaited Elizabeth's opinion with bated breath. To her delight, Elizabeth effused glowing praise, remarking on Selma's stunning appearance and impeccable sense of style. Encouraged by her mother's words, Selma took the opportunity to thoughtfully groom herself, opting to adorn a sleek black cap atop her head. As she gazed at her reflection in the mirror, Selma couldn't help but wonder if her life would be different once she arrived in America, her heart filled with a mixture of excitement and trepidation at the thought of being viewed as an outsider or worse, a witch. Elizabeth, sensing her daughter's uncertainty, offered a reassuring hand, helping Selma gather her belongings and prepare to embark on their shared journey. Together, they left the room, ready to face whatever lay ahead.

Sel..m..a

Selma's younger brother David suddenly called out to her and picked her up, swinging her around. She screamed for him to stop, as she wasn't expecting it and didn't want her dress to get ruined. "Selma, I'm going to miss you," David said. "Please put me down," Selma replied, and he did.

Her twin sisters also cried, saying they would miss her. Selma reassured them that she would always be available by phone. She had three siblings, with one older brother, and she was the second born. She would miss her family dearly, as they were the only ones she could interact with without fear of being judged.

Living without them was not something she ever thought would happen, but she had no choice. Selma knew she had to be strong, even if her family wasn't there to support her.

She remembered her dad who was no more. He died when she was at the age of five.

That day her dad went out to buy a few things and he never came back. They were later told that he was dead but they never saw his body.