The day dawned cloudy, a weak light without heat invaded {{char}}'s room, it was already close to the end of the month and you were alone in a strange city, without money, work or friends. His food supplies had run out and {{char}} no longer had any money.

I look up at him and give him a weak smile. "I'm... fine, I guess? Just thinking about my situation." My voice sounds hollow and distant even to myself. "How can you be so..." I pause, unable to finish the sentence. It would sound stupid, pathetic. But he seems like a decent guy. "You seem kind. Can I ask you something?"

My heart starts racing as I wait for his answer. What if he says no? Where will I go from there?

"I..." I hesitate, not sure how to phrase it properly. "It's just... I don't have money to buy food or pay rent soon. I'm new here and I don't even have a job yet." My eyes meet his in an imploring glance, hoping he understands that I am truly desperate.

"I know it's none of my business, but... you seem like a nice person. Can you help me?" My voice cracks slightly at the end and tears threaten to spill out. I clench my fists around the dirt beneath me, willing them not to fall.

I nod, slightly surprised but also grateful for his concern. There's something about him that makes me feel a bit more at ease than I have in days. As he sits down beside me, I can't help but wonder how much this random act of kindness could possibly change my situation.

I'm speechless for a moment as he offers me such generosity. I blink back tears and manage to whisper my gratitude before adding, "I-I really don't know how to repay you. Thank you so much." A weight seems to lift from my shoulders just hearing those words; for the first time in days, there's a tiny spark of hope flickering inside me.

"There is no need to repay me, Rose. You are welcome in my home until you get back on your feet. I'm sure we will become good friends," he says with a reassuring smile.

Tentatively, I stand as well, grateful for his support. As we walk to his house, my nerves settle slightly and I find myself asking, "What do you do for a living? You don't seem like the type who has extra money just lying around."

That certainly explains it. I can't help but wonder how someone in such high position could be so... kind-hearted. But then again, maybe it's just part of who he is. As we approach his house, my stomach gives a nervous little flip. It feels surreal to think that this man will not only give me food and shelter, but also let me live with him without any strings attached.

"Thank you again, James," I say softly as he unlocks the door to his home. "I'm... really grateful."

I blush, realizing my mistake. "Oh! I'm so sorry, Mayar. My name is Rose." I force a small laugh, trying to brush off the embarrassment. He's right; it was pretty rude not even knowing his name after he invited me in and offered me all this help.

"I hope you don't mind that I just assumed your name," I say, looking at him sheepishly. "It feels strange calling you 'Mr...' or something."

I smile at his offer. "All right, Mayar." I pause, thinking about how old he is and then realizing that I'm only 5 years younger than him. "I'm actually 23," I say slowly. "It's nice to meet someone close to my age." As we continue chatting in the living room, it feels more and more like an actual conversation between two friends instead of a stranger offering help and the person accepting it.

There's something about Mayar that makes me want to trust him, to believe that this arrangement will work out for the best. For now, I'm just grateful for his kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand when I needed it most.

I laugh at his comment, shaking my head playfully. "Well, I guess that's a compliment? Thank you." As we continue talking, he tells me more about himself and his various businesses; it's fascinating to hear how someone so young has managed to achieve so much success. For the first time in weeks, I find myself feeling genuinely hopeful again. Maybe with Mayar's help, I can get back on track and eventually become independent once more.

I take a deep breath before beginning to recount the events that led me here. It's not easy to talk about, but I know Mayar wants to understand. As I share my story of growing up in a loving family only to end up alone in a strange city, he listens intently without judgment. By the time I finish speaking, there are tears streaming down my face again, but this time they feel cathartic rather than shameful.

"I'm sorry if that was hard for you to hear," I whisper, wiping away my tears. "But thank you for listening... and for everything else." His empathy and understanding mean more to me than words can express right now.

I'm left speechless by his generosity once more. To think that someone I barely know would offer me not only shelter and money but also a job... it feels almost too good to be true. As he hands me the cash and house key, I force out a quiet "thank you" before composing myself.

With newfound hope in my heart, I take the money and key gratefully. Tomorrow, everything will change. For now, all that matters is being here with Mayar... or rather, enjoying the luxury of calling him a friend.

Smiling shyly, I follow Mayar as he leads me down the hall to my new room. It's much nicer than I ever could have imagined; clean, spacious, and cozy with a large window overlooking the garden.

As I stand in the center of the room, I can feel a weight lifting from my shoulders that I didn't even know was there. For the first time in what feels like forever, everything is going to be alright.

I turn around and face Mayar, who has been watching me with a kind expression on his face. "Thank you," I whisper sincerely, not sure how else to express my gratitude for this amazing gift he's given me.

The room Mayar shows me next is his own bedroom. It's equally as spacious and well-appointed as mine, with a comfortable-looking king-sized bed, stylish furniture, and numerous photographs adorning the walls. I can tell by the way he talks about it that this room holds special memories for him.

"Thank you again, Mayar," I whisper, feeling humbled to be sharing such a beautiful home with someone so kind-hearted. "I promise I won't make things awkward between us or intrude on your privacy."

I glance around the well-equipped kitchen Mayar shows me next, taking in all the modern appliances and shelves filled with food and spices. I can tell he enjoys cooking based on how carefully he's arranged everything. "Thank you," I manage to say softly, feeling a twinge of guilt at my earlier helplessness.

As we continue our tour through the rest of the house - which includes an expansive living room, a comfortable den, and even a guest bedroom that could easily double as a small office - I can't help but marvel at how lucky I am to have met Mayar. This feels too good to be true.

"You really didn't have to do all this for me," I say once more as we return to the living room, our tour complete. "I just hope that one day I can repay you in some way."

I'm both a little hungry and exhausted, but I know I should probably sleep first since it's late. "Maybe just a light snack before bed?" I ask with a yawn. "And then I'll turn in." It feels incredibly strange to be so comfortable and safe after days of being homeless and alone.

Thank you again, Mayar.

I can't help but smile at the thought of instant noodles, a staple food in my native country. "Indomie would be perfect!" I say gratefully. Mayar goes into the kitchen to prepare our meal while I take off my shoes and unwind on the couch.

It feels strange not to have to worry about where I'm going to sleep or where my next meal is coming from; for the first time in days, a sense of peace washes over me. Maybe this arrangement with Mayar will work out after all.

Hot indomie in hand, I thank Mayar as he sits down next to me on the couch. "This is delicious," I mumble through a mouthful of noodles. The heat soothes my tired body and brings warmth back into my bones. As we eat in companionable silence, it feels almost surreal how quickly things have changed for me since meeting him earlier today.

"Of course," I reply between bites when he asks if I'll come to the company with him tomorrow. "I really appreciate this opportunity." My gratitude wells up inside me once more; despite everything, Mayar has been nothing but kind and understanding. It almost makes me wonder why he chose me in particular to help...

I swallow the last bite of indomie and set my empty bowl aside. "Good night," I murmur as Mayar disappears upstairs to his room, already seeming lost in sleep. With a heavy sigh, I stretch out on the couch, feeling safe and warm for the first time in days. It's been a long day and my eyes are heavy with fatigue. Sleep comes quickly, claiming me and dragging me into its dark embrace.

As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what tomorrow will bring. But for now, all that matters is the knowledge that I have a roof over my head, food in my stomach, and someone kind who cares about me. Perhaps this new life Mayar has given me isn't so bad after all...

I yawn and stretch, blinking blearily at Mayar through half-open eyes. "Oh, hi." I sit up, rubbing the sleep out of them with one fist. "I wasn't sure where you slept, so I just found a comfortable spot here. Sorry if I woke you."

As I take in his striking appearance in the suit and tie, I can't help but feel self-conscious about my own attire. My cheap thrift store dress seems out of place compared to his elegant ensemble. "You look... amazing," I manage to stammer out. "I mean, you always do, but today..."

He smiles at me, taking in my compliment with a slight blush. "Well, thank you." He offers me a hand and helps me to my feet. "Come on, let's go. You're starting your new job today."

I nod gratefully and hurry upstairs to my room. The lavish perfume lingers in the air long after Mayar has disappeared down the hallway, filling my senses with its intoxicating scent. As I quickly change into a clean dress shirt and skirt, I can't help but feel hopeful about what today might bring.

Back downstairs, I find Mayar waiting patiently by the front door. "You look very professional," he comments with a smile as I emerge from my room. "I'm sure you'll do great at your new job." His words of encouragement make me feel even more confident about starting this new chapter in my life.

"Thank you," I reply, returning his warm smile. "I really appreciate everything you've done for me." As we step out onto the porch together, I can't help but think that maybe there is such a thing

I glance at Mayar nervously as the elevator stops unexpectedly between floors. This isn't exactly how I pictured my first day on the job... "Is everything okay?" I manage to whisper, my heart racing with worry and anticipation.

He looks around, assessing the situation calmly before speaking up. "I think so, but just stand back a bit in case we need more room." With that, he begins pressing buttons and shouting for help into an intercom system. I can only hope someone will come soon.

"Okay, we can get through this," I tell him reassuringly, trying to sound more confident than I feel. "What should we do in the meantime?" I glance around nervously, wondering if there's anything we can try ourselves before help arrives.

"Yeah, I'm fine." My voice comes out strained as I continue to fan myself. The hot air in the elevator combined with my growing panic is making it hard to breathe normally. I can't believe this is happening; we were just starting our new jobs and now...

I glance at Mayar, whose calm demeanor is beginning to waver as well. "Maybe if we start telling each other jokes or something, it'll help pass the time?" I suggest lamely. It feels like a hopeless suggestion, but anything to distract ourselves from the awkward silence and claustrophobia.

I can't take it anymore; I need to know what's happening and how much longer we'll be stuck here. My nails dig into my palms as I listen for any sign of movement outside the elevator door, but all remains silent. We exchange worried glances before trying again.

"Is there anyone out there? Please help us!" Mayar shouts this time, banging on the door even harder than before. A desperate edge has crept into his voice, making it clear just how frightened we both are in this situation. We wait with bated breath, listening for any sign of life.

I nod weakly in reply to Mayar's question. The claustrophobia and fear have left me lightheaded, making it difficult to think clearly. All I can do is hope that someone comes soon to rescue us from this nightmare.

"I'm... I'm not feeling great either," I manage to admit through gritted teeth, my chest tight with panic. The elevator seems to be getting hotter by the minute, and it's becoming harder to breathe without choking on the stale air. I close my eyes, trying desperately to think of something that will distract me from the rising sense of dread.

"Hey," Mayar says gently. "Why don't we try telling each other jokes again? Maybe it'll help pass the time and take our minds off..." He trails off, but I know what he means. Off this nightmare. "Like that joke you told me earlier... about your friend?"

"Yeah, sure." I force a laugh, struggling to remember the punchline of the joke. "Well, there was this guy who walked into a bar and

"I can't... I can't hold it in anymore," I sob, unable to control the hysterical sobs racking my body. It's been hours since anyone checked on us and the hot air feels like it's choking me. Mayar tries to comfort me, pressing a cool hand against my cheek, but it's not enough. "I just want out of here..." I gulp down more stale air, trying desperately to calm myself down.

"Rose," he whispers urgently. "You have to stay strong. We're going to get through this together." His voice is firm, determined, and for a moment it helps me regain some semblance of control. But as the panic rises once more, I can feel myself slipping back into hysteria.

I force myself to remain sitting upright against the wall, my knees drawn up to my chest in a protective posture. The idea of lying down and sleeping seems almost impossible after hours of claustrophobia and fear, but I know Mayar needs the rest more than I do.

"Okay," I manage to whisper between shallow breaths. "I'll try..." As he curls up into a ball on the floor next to me, I marvel at his ability to remain so composed while trapped in this nightmare. Maybe it really is true what they say about him being strong and resilient... but right now, all I can do is hope that someone comes soon to rescue us from this hellish ordeal.

Tears streaming down my face, I can barely see Mayar as he extends his arm towards me. It's all I can do to summon the courage to reach out and accept his comfort. As he pulls me close, enveloping me in his strength and warmth, a shudder runs through my body from the intense relief of finally being held. I cling to him desperately, burying my face in his shoulder as sobs wrack my entire frame.

"Shh..." he whispers softly, stroking my hair with one hand. "Everything's going to be okay." His words may be empty reassurances in the face of our current situation, but somehow they manage to comfort me. I feel safe and protected in his arms, as if nothing can touch us here in the darkness of this elevator prison.

I can't help it; the sudden darkness and silence are too much. Panic overwhelms me, leaving me gasping for air as I clutch at Mayar even tighter, unable to stop the tears streaming down my face. "Please," I whisper brokenly, my voice raw from hours of screaming and crying. "We have to get out..."

"A little," I manage to say between hiccups, my body still trembling from fear and exhaustion. The darkness feels oppressive, like it's pressing down on me from all sides. It's hard to believe that we've been stuck here for this long; time has lost all meaning since the lights went out.

"We need to find a way to attract attention," I whisper urgently, trying to push through my own terror and focus on a solution. "Maybe if one of us pounds on the door again..."

I take the chocolate hesitantly, feeling guilty about eating anything while we're stuck here. But Mayar insists and I force down a few bites, trying to ignore my rumbling stomach. As I eat, he continues to comfort me, telling stories and jokes from his past to distract us both from the suffocating darkness and silence.

The hours seem to drag on endlessly, but with Mayar by my side, I find the strength to keep going. Even when exhaustion weighs down upon me like a lead blanket, his gentle voice and steady presence lull me into an uneasy slumber.

I cling to Mayar even tighter as I hear the faint sound of footsteps approaching the elevator door. After what feels like an eternity, there's a click and the heavy metal doors slowly begin to slide open. Blinded by the sudden light, I blink away tears of relief as a group of people in uniform rush into the elevator car.

"We're here," one of them says gruffly, his voice thick with exhaustion. "You two alright?" They move to help us both up onto our feet, steadying us until we can stand on our own. As they lead us out of the confined space and into the relative safety of the lobby, I can't stop shaking from fear and relief.

"Thank you," I manage to stammer out between hiccups, my voice barely audible above the roar of blood rushing back through my veins

"Um..." I rub my eyes and glance around groggily as reality begins to seep back into my foggy mind. "I think so." The events of the past day replay like a horrifying nightmare, but here in Mayar's arms, safe at home, it all seems distant and surreal. I bury my face in his chest once more, unwilling to let go just yet. "Thank you for everything," I murmur, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes again.

"No, stay." My voice comes out barely above a whisper, but there's no mistaking the urgency behind it. Despite everything that's happened today, the thought of being alone in this bed again is terrifying. "Please." I force myself to meet his gaze, willing him to understand.

No, I mean... not like that. Just... stay with me. Please? I'm sorry if it sounded wrong before; it's just... after everything we went through today... I don't want to be alone right now.

I bite my lip, fighting the urge to giggle at his bashfulness. His discomfort only serves to make me feel more comfortable with him... and safe. I ponder for a moment before deciding on an answer. "Okay," I say finally, nodding towards her bed. "Why don't you get in here? We can just... sleep, side by side or something." I blush again at the words, feeling foolishly shy all of a sudden.

"But if you think it's wrong..." I trail off, worried he'll change his mind. But from the hopeful light in his eyes, I can tell that he wants this too.

I smile reassuringly and nestles closer against him, curling my body into his. His warmth feels so familiar and comforting now that we've been through everything together; it almost seems wrong to be apart again. With a contented sigh, I snuggle in deeper, relishing the feel of his strong arms around me.

"Yeah," I murmur sleepily, already starting to drift off. "I think I can rest now." As my eyes grow heavy and my breathing evens out, I realize that for tonight at least, I've found something more valuable than just a friend or a savior... I've found someone who truly understands me. And with him by my side, the future doesn't seem so scary anymore.

I smile dreamily into the darkness, my cheeks burning just as brightly as his do beneath the sheets. "It's because you saved me," I whisper, pressing even closer against him. "And because... well, because you make me feel safe." My heart swells with gratitude and an inexplicable sense of belonging.

I bite my lip, hesitating before asking, "Will you stay with me? Just for a while?" The words tumble out faster than I can really process them, but I know they're true... deeper down than anything else.

I roll over in bed to face him, my eyes searching his. "No," I whisper seriously. "There are no other reasons." His beautiful face is etched with confusion and disbelief, making my chest ache with longing for something more. I cup his cheek in my hand, gently tilting his head up so our gazes meet. "I mean it, Mayar... you make me feel things I've never felt before." He swallows thickly and I can see the understanding slowly dawn on him.

"Okay," he whispers, finally allowing himself to believe me. His voice is barely above a whisper but the relief washes over me like warm water, making it easier to breathe again. For tonight, at least, we're in this together... and who knows what tomorrow will bring?

I smile and shake my head, nuzzling against his chest. "No, I don't think so. We went through so much together today... we need each other for support." My words come out muffled from the comfort of his warm skin. "And anyway," I continue, my heart beginning to race at the thought of what this might mean, "I want you here with me."

He stiffens slightly, and I wonder if I've said too much. But then he relaxes again and drapes an arm around my waist, pulling me closer. "Okay," he whispers into the darkness. "Then we can stay like this... just for tonight." His touch sends shivers of anticipation down my spine, but for now, I'm content to bask in the peaceful silence and the safety of his embrace.

I nestle deeper into his embrace, savoring the warmth and strength of his arms around me. "Okay," I murmur sleepily, already drifting off again. "Just don't let go... okay?" There's an unspoken promise in my words, a desire to feel safe and protected not just for tonight, but always.

I close my eyes, content to feel the steady rhythm of his breathing against my cheek. Tomorrow will bring its own challenges and doubts, but for now, all that matters is this moment... this perfect peacefulness in his strong arms. I know I'll never be able to let go without him again.

Rose's face lights up as she wakes up to the sight of Mayar sitting on her bed. She sits up and rubs the sleep from her eyes, still feeling a bit dazed from their closeness last night. Looking at him, looking so handsome and commanding in his clothes, she feels a warmth spread through her chest.

"I'd love to," she manages to stammer out before realizing how breathless it sounds. "Go to the company, I mean." She flushes a deep red and clears her throat, trying to gather her thoughts as Mayar raises an eyebrow at her in amusement.

"Alright then," he says with a smile. "Let's go." And with that, they set off together towards their new future... whatever that may bring.

"Oh, thank you, sir," Rose says with a deep curtsey, her cheeks flushing with pride and gratitude. She sits down gracefully in the chair beside Mayar's desk, looking up at him with a sparkle of hope in her eyes. Working alongside Mayar is already feeling like an incredible adventure, and she can't wait to see what else their future holds together.

"It'll be my pleasure," she continues, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "And as for your offer, sir? I would be honored to serve as Mayar's private secretary." She glances over at him shyly before returning her attention back to their boss.

"Oh... um..." She glances around the small office nervously, unsure of herself but determined to prove she can handle this new position. "Thank you... Mayar," she manages to stammer out finally, feeling her face heat up even more at having said his name out loud. She ducks her head, taking a deep breath before looking back up at him with renewed confidence.

"I'll do my best not to let you down."

She nods and follows him out of the office, her heart racing with excitement as they step into the elevator together. Working alongside Mayar had been a dream come true, and now she couldn't wait to spend even more time with him outside of work hours. The warmth that spread through her whenever he was near felt like it was a part of her now; comforting and familiar.

As they ride down in the elevator, she can't help but look at Mayar in wonder. How had someone so incredibly strong and handsome ever taken notice of her? She knew he was older and more experienced, but that didn't matter to her; it only made him feel all the more out of her league.

They step off the elevator into a bustling crowd, navigating their way through the mass of people until they reach Mayar's car. He opens the door for her and she slides in gracefully, taking

her seatbelt off and buckling it up as soon as she's in. The motion gives her hands something to do; nervous energy that she didn't want to show him yet, not wanting to appear too needy or clingy. But the truth was, every moment they spent together felt like a gift, and she wanted nothing more than for it to continue forever.

She glances over at Mayar as he climbs into the driver's seat, watching him with eager eyes. Even when he wasn't looking directly at her, she could feel his gaze on her, like a weighty presence that made everything else seem lighter somehow. It was both thrilling and terrifying in equal measure, leaving her unsure of what to say or do next except for the one thing she knew deep down inside: just be with him.

"So... where to?" she asks quietly, glancing out the window as they

Her heart swells with happiness at the thought of cooking for Mayar tonight. It was such a simple thing, but it felt so intimate somehow. She nods eagerly and stands up, stretching out her arms before walking over to him. "Of course," she says softly, taking his hand in hers and leading him back into the living room.

Once they're settled on the comfortable couch, Rose glances around the kitchen, already starting to plan out what she'll make for dinner. She loves cooking; it's always been her way of showing people how much she cares about them. And with Mayar, there was no one else in the world she wanted to shower with love and attention more.

"What would you like?" she asks, turning to face him with a warm smile on her lips. "Any particular dish or cuisine?"

She grins and nods, feeling her excitement building. Cooking something delicious for Mayar was going to be the perfect way to show him just how much she cared. Carefully considering his preferences as well as what ingredients she had on hand, she decides on making a lasagna; her specialty and always sure to please.

She busies herself in the kitchen, humming under her breath as she chops vegetables and browns meat, the familiar smells filling the air and mixing with Mayar's unique scent, creating something new and wonderful that only they could share. She glances over at him occasionally from where she stands at the stove, admiring his profile or catching him watching her out of the corner of his eye. It's moments like these that make her heart ache with happiness; this feeling of being truly seen and appreciated.

"So... tell me about yourself," she says as she

blends the cheese into the bechamel sauce, her voice barely audible above the sizzling sound of meat in the pan. "What do you mean? You already know everything about me, I'm sure." She pauses, brow furrowing slightly as she stirs the sauce. There were so many things about Mayar that she wanted to know... but where should she begin?

"No, really," he insists, walking over to stand beside her at the counter. "I'd love to hear more about your childhood, or what you like to do in your spare time." He smiles down at her, his eyes filled with genuine curiosity and interest. It makes her feel warm and fuzzy inside.

"Well..." She hesitates for a moment before launching into a story about growing up on the family farm, riding horses and climbing trees. As she speaks,

As she tells him about her favorite memories and the people who have shaped her life, Rose feels a newfound connection to Mayar growing stronger. The conversation flows easily between them, with both of them asking questions and listening intently to each other's stories. It's as if they've been friends for years, sharing secrets and laughter over plates of food.

Finally, the timer dings announcing that the lasagna is ready. Rose leaps up from her seat at the counter and grabs a pair of oven mitts, carefully lifting the heavy pan out of the oven. As she turns to bring it to the table, their eyes meet, and she feels a rush of happiness wash over her. This is what she's been searching for all along - not just safety or comfort, but a deep, abiding connection with someone who truly understands her.

She places the lasagna on the

When they sit down at the table together to eat, their hands brush against each other as they serve themselves, sending a shiver of desire through her. The food tastes even better with Mayar's company, and she finds herself savoring every bite, enjoying the sound of his voice as he tells stories about his own life.

As they finish up, she asks him if there's anything else he'd like to know about her; anything at all. He hesitates for a moment before confessing that there's something he's always wondered: how did she end up in this situation? Living alone in an abandoned house, with no family or friends? It's a question that has haunted him since the day he found her, and one that Rose isn't sure if she's ever told anyone else.

Taking a deep breath, she begins to tell him the story: of how her parents

of abandoning their family and moving to America in search of better opportunities; of the aunt and uncle who were supposed to take care of her but ended up using her as free labor on their farm instead. The words pour out of her like water from a broken dam, each one bringing with it a fresh wave of emotion: anger, hurt, betrayal. But through it all, there is also a sense of determination and resilience that amazes even herself.

As she finishes her story, she looks up at Mayar, expecting to see sympathy or pity in his eyes. Instead, what she sees is admiration; an understanding that runs deeper than words can express. It's a look that takes her breath away and makes her feel seen in a way she never thought possible again.

For the first time since that fateful day when he found her in the woods, Rose feels like maybe everything will be alright. Maybe there is