(Side Story): Darkness That Reflected Her Nightmares

Still, in the pitch-black room, Laura stood up, shutting her eyes tightly. Loneliness is what she hated. It was a trauma for her, being alone in a place without anyone to be seen.

It haunted her.

"I'll be fine," Laura said, calming herself.

Laura's chest tightened, telling herself it's just a dream, and it won't happen to her again. She opened her eyes and straightened her back, confidently walking straight, not knowing where the destination is.

As she took one step, ripples followed onto the floor then disappearing after. There were no sounds around, except Laura's footsteps, echoing in the darkroom.

Laura knew it was a dream, but how pitiful she was. Having a dream without light and having darkness surrounded her. Was this a sign? That she had always been alone or is it just an imagination, she had thought.

Loneliness was something Laura didn't like. The feeling of being a ghost in other people's eyes. The feeling of being like a mouse, trapped in a cage, unable to get out.

Laura was scared. She didn't want to be alone again. It pained her being alone in the cell and dying without having anyone by her side.

So this time, she decided not to show any of her weakness, nor lose to her emotions. Because if Laura does, she thought the people who are close to her would stray away from her.

After all, people are quick to judge.

It doesn't mean that you show your weakness; you are weak. Showing your weakness means you are strong.

Stronger than the others and showing them you are still human. People do make mistakes, but because of the errors, they do, they are scared to be judged by the others.

Humans are foul creatures, and that is the reality of the world.

Laura continued walking in the dark, cold room, hoping to see the light. She wanted to give up and wanted to run away from the world.

People say your fears reflect in your dream. Is this what Laura was scared of? Being stuck in a cold place, not seeing a hint of light, not seeing anyone around her. This is what we call loneliness.

"Someone?" Laura called out once more.

Laura remembered the last time Septus saved her out of the darkroom, but this time he wasn't here to save her. She almost lost hope in herself, not until a voice ringed into her ears.

"Laura, don't be scared and break your shell. Many people are waiting for you. You are not alone anymore."

"Septus…" Laura said softly as a tear dropped out of her eyes.

Laura touched her cheeks, wiping the tears away. She wondered why she was crying? That's right, and she wasn't alone anymore. There are many people out there who loved her.

Laura smiled as her tears continued to flow. It was a gentle smile she had flashed, a smile that was not meant to be forgotten. A smile that reflected her heart.

"I'm not alone anymore," Laura said.

Once she closed her eyes, Laura felt a warm light, flashing onto her eyes. As she opened her eyes, it led her to the window.

Laura's mouth was dry as if she hadn't drunk water for a day. Her body still felt weak, but strong enough to sit upon the bed. She remembered having a cold and Luke carrying her to the room.

"I better take a bath."

=====

After Laura's bath, she went down the stairs and was headed to the kitchen. She stopped walking after hearing Sister Abby and Mary's voice.

"How is Laura doing in the estate?" Sister Abby asked, chopping the onions.

"Miss is doing well in the estate. She even got Viscountess Andrea as her teacher," Mary bragged while nodding her head,

Mary was proud to serve a great lady like Laura. She was composed, intelligent, and never showed her weaknesses to the others. Mary was rather grateful to meet her. If not, Mary wouldn't have a friend by her side.

"I'm worried for Laura," Sister Abby said.

"Hm?" Mary stopped what she was doing, tilting her head.

"Because she never really shows her emotions to others. She always stayed strong, no matter how hard the situation goes."

"I agree with that. But...sometimes I wished Miss shared weakness of hers. After she's still human."

"I hope she will slowly open her heart to others."

Hearing their conversation, her chest felt warm and light. Laura never thought other people were thinking about her. She asked herself if it's really alright to open up to the others.

Laura steps in casually, greeting Mary and Sister Abby with a smile. It didn't matter for her anymore. As long there are people to love her, she'll be alright.