Forced to be the billionaire's wife

I felt trapped, like I was living in a prison. I was sure that if I had the courage to run away, I could find a rich man who would be willing to pay for my college tuition. I believed that my attractiveness would add advantage in my job search. But, why should I settle for someone who didn’t value girls like us, who didn't have any family or history?

On the other hand, I felt attached to the kids at the orphanage, as if they were my own siblings. I wanted to be there for them, to guide them and share my knowledge as much as I could.

When I was summoned by the orphanage manager, I was curious. "You asked to see me, ma'am?" I asked, uneasy from her serious tone. She asked me to sit, her eyes filled with concern. "Is everything alright?" I asked her. "Did something bad happen?"

She shook her head and sighed, telling me, "You’re 18 now Carla, and as per the orphanage rules, you either have to leave and find a home and a job or you can stay here and work.” Her words left me breathless. I had believed my agreement to stay and work in the orphanage was understood.