The beginning of forever

23 - Freedom

Becky quietly entered the grand Chankimha Mansion, her footsteps muffled by the plush carpeting. As she made her way deeper into the house, she couldn't help but overhear Freen's raised voice. She realized that Freen was in the midst of a heated argument with her father.

From the hallway, Becky could hear the tension in their voices as they exchanged words.

Freen's plea to her father was filled with sincerity and determination. "I'm already committed to studying business, coz I actually love it; and preparing to be your heir," she began, her voice steadier but no less resolute. "Can't you at least allow me to do it at my own pace? If my brother wants to take on all those subjects at once, I'll support him. But, Dad, I want the chance to enjoy a more relaxed college experience and the freedom."

With a sense of finality in her tone, Freen reiterated, "This is all I ask, please, Dad." Her words hung in the air, a simple yet earnest request that carried the weight of her dreams and aspirations.

Freen's father, while upset and conflicted, recognized the need to step back from the argument. He sighed and said, "Let's take a pause on this for now. I don't want to fight. I have a meeting to attend, and you've made your point; But I still want you to think about what I've said as well. We'll discuss this further when I get back." His words signaled a temporary ceasefire, giving both of them time to cool off and reflect on the conversation.

As Freen's father, Mark, walked outside, he spotted Becky and approached her for a brief conversation. He wore a somber expression, indicating the weight of their previous discussion.

Becky, sensing the tension, greeted him first with a polite smile and said, "Uncle, I hope everything will work out for the best."

Freen's father nodded appreciatively, "I hope so too. Freen has a strong will, and I want what's best for her. Becky, I understand that Freen is determined to enjoy a carefree life. I would appreciate it if you could talk to her, help her see the importance of balancing her freedom and responsibility. Your support means a lot to both of us, and it might make a difference in her decision"

Becky nodded in acknowledgment and assured him, "I'll talk to Freen. I want what's best for her as well, and I'll do my best to help her find a way that works for everyone."

With that, they exchanged a nod of mutual understanding and parted ways, each carrying their own hopes for Freen's future.

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Freen's POV

I'm so frustrated with my father. I genuinely do want to study business and be his heir, but I also crave freedom. I don't want to be confined by responsibility alone.

The morning argument was truly upsetting, and what made it even more challenging was the thought that Becky had likely witnessed it. Freen couldn't help but feel a pang of regret knowing that Becky had been inadvertently pulled into the tension between her and her father.

In my room, an awkward silence loomed between me and Becky. I could feel the weight of the recent argument, and it seemed like a barrier between us. Freen was uncertain about how to break the uncomfortable stillness that had settled in, and she longed for a way to bridge the gap between them.

Fortunately, Becky was the first to break the silence, asking, "So, which movie would you like to watch at the cinema later?" Her question provided a welcome opportunity to shift their focus away from the tension and towards a more lighthearted topic.

I appreciated Becky's effort to steer the conversation in a more positive direction. With a grateful smile, I replied, "I heard there's a new romantic comedy out. How about we go for that one? It might be just what we need to lighten the mood."