Born too ugly, abandoned by her parents. 20 years later, the girl is. The weak cries of a baby echoed through the spacious delivery room of an upscale private hospital in New York. Isabella Montgomery, a noble woman, lay on the hospital bed, sweat glistening on her forehead, but her eyes shone with anticipation. After years of waiting, she had finally given birth to a child.
Richard Aldridge, her husband, stood beside her, his hands in his pockets, maintaining a cold demeanor. To him, having another child was merely a duty to continue the family lineage. When the nurse carried the baby closer to Isabella, she smiled, but that smile instantly froze as her eyes landed on the baby’s face.
“Oh my god!” Isabella screamed, pushing the baby away as if it were a monster. The young nurse, Maria, recoiled in shock, nearly dropping the infant. What’s wrong, Senora? Maria asked anxiously. Look at its face. Oh, God. No. Isabella clutched her head, her voice filled with panic. Richard stepped forward, frowning as he gazed at the baby.
A large, deep red birthark stretched from the baby’s forehead down to her left cheek. It looked like a cursed mark. Richard sneered. An ugly child like this carrying the Aldridge name. This is an insult. Isabella trembled, gripping her husband’s hand tightly. Richard, we can’t keep it. A child like this will ruin our family’s reputation. Maria was stunned.
But sir, madam, this is your daughter. Richard glared at the nurse. You have no right to speak. Get out immediately. Maria clutched the baby tightly in her arms, helplessly watching as Isabella and Richard discussed the infant as if she weren’t their own flesh and blood. Isabella shivered, glancing around, her voice almost breaking.
Richard, do whatever you must, but I don’t want to see it for another second. Richard waved his hand, ordering a trusted servant, Manuel, to take the baby away. Make sure it disappears forever. Maria gasped, “Senor, this is a crime. You can’t do this to a child.” Richard smirked. “A crime?” So, letting it live, carrying that face around and disgracing my family’s name isn’t a crime.
Tears welled up in Maria’s eyes as she watched Manuel obey the order. The young nurse could do nothing but watch as the poor baby was taken away into the cold night while her own parents felt nothing. The New York winter was brutally cold. Manuel, a middle-aged man who had served the Aldrich family for many years, wrapped the baby in an old woolen blanket and silently left the grand estate. He didn’t want to do this, but his master’s orders could not be disobeyed.
Manuel walked through the long streets, trying not to think about the baby’s faint cries in his arms. He knew he couldn’t take her to an orphanage because Richard had ordered that no one should know of her existence. When he reached the edge of the forest on the outskirts of the city, Manuel hesitated.
The baby was still crying, her tiny face red from the cold. “God, forgive me,” Manuel muttered, placing the baby down on a large rock before turning away. But fate was not so cruel. An elderly woman named Rose happened to pass by. She lived in a small wooden house on the forest’s edge, selling vegetables in town everyday to make a living.
When she heard the cries, she trembled and stepped closer. “Dear Lord, it’s a baby.” Rose bent down, her aged eyes filled with pity as she saw the abandoned infant. “Who could do such a cruel thing?” She gently picked up the baby, soothing her. The baby seemed to recognize the warmth and stopped crying, her eyes opening wide to gaze at Rose.
“You poor thing,” Rose sighed. “No one wants to raise you.” “Then I will.” Rose held the baby close, wrapping the old wool blanket tightly to keep her warm, then hobbled back home. Rose’s small cottage was deep in the forest, simple but warm. She lit a fire in the fireplace and carefully laid the baby down on her bed.
“You’re safe now, my dear,” she whispered. “I will call you Lucy, a name that means light, so you will never have to live in darkness again.” Lucy stirred slightly under the wool blanket, her tiny eyes slowly closing. The next morning, Rose carried Lucy into the village to find milk. As she entered the small general store, she met the judgmental gazes of several villagers. A middle-aged woman, Mrs.
Marilyn, frowned. “Rose, where did you get that baby? I found her in the woods.” “Someone abandoned her,” Rose replied firmly. “I’m going to raise her.” The villagers began murmuring. An old man shook his head. “Maybe she’s a cursed child. Look at that birthark on her face. Another woman, Mrs. Camille, whispered, “Dear God, could she be a bad omen?” Rose held Lucy tightly.
“You’re all being superstitious. She’s just a child, but no one believed her.” A young man, Sergio, crossed his arms and said, “Rose, you better not keep her. She’ll bring trouble to you.” Despite their words, Rose didn’t care about the villagers gossip. She was determined to protect Lucy.
Meanwhile, at the Aldridge mansion, Isabella sat in a chair, sipping her tea with a calm expression. Richard entered the room, his voice cold. Is it done? It’s done. Isabella let out a relieved sigh. Finally, we’re rid of that ugly thing. Richard said nothing, only smirking. We should start preparing for a son. The Aldridge family needs a worthy heir. Isabella nodded.
In their eyes, Lucy had never existed. But fate never leaves the heartless unpunished. The morning sun shone through the small window of the modest wooden house. Lucy, around 6 years old at the time, sat on the cold ground, flipping through the pages of an old, worn out book that Rose had kept for many years.
The words were difficult to understand, but she never gave up because learning was the only thing that made her feel like she could exist in such a cruel world. Rose smiled gently as she watched the child focus on her reading. You’re very smart, Lucy. One day, no one will look down on you anymore. Lucy looked up, her eyes bright. Grandma, if I study really hard, will people love me? The smile on Rose’s lips faltered slightly.
She gently stroked the child’s messy hair. Not everyone is kind, my dear. But if you have knowledge, you will have the power to change your fate. Lucy nodded, though she didn’t fully understand her words. To her, the outside world had never seemed welcoming.
The village where Lucy lived was small and poor, but the people there were filled with prejudice. Ever since Rose had taken her in, Lucy had always been the subject of gossip and exclusion. Whenever Rose took Lucy to the market, the judgmental gazes and hushed whispers followed them everywhere. That’s the girl with the birthark on her face. She looks terrifying. She must bring bad luck.
Rose must be crazy. Why does she insist on raising her? Every time, Rose would simply hold Lucy’s hand tightly and lead her away. But Lucy heard everything. She would lower her head, her small hands clutching the hem of her dress. A question always echoed in Lucy’s heart.
Why do they hate me? What did I do wrong? By the time Lucy was eight, she was eager to go to school like other children. She had secretly watched them play on the dirt road leading to the village school, imagining herself among them sitting in a classroom, hearing her name called during roll call. One morning, Lucy bravely took Rose’s hand.
Grandma, can I go to school? Rose hesitated, but you know they don’t want you there. But I already know how to read. I’ll study hard. I promise. The yearning in Lucy’s eyes made it impossible for Rose to refuse. Finally, she took Lucy to the village school, hoping the headmaster would give her a chance.
But as soon as the two of them stepped onto the school grounds, a group of parents quickly blocked the classroom door. A woman named Mrs. Marissa snapped. “We won’t accept a cursed child in our children’s classroom.” “That’s right. She’ll bring misfortune,” added a man, Mr. Albert. Lucy, frightened, hid behind Rose, her eyes brimming with tears. The headmaster, Mr.
Peter, sighed regretfully. Rose, I’m very sorry, but you see, there’s nothing I can do. Rose trembled with anger. She’s just a child. Do you people have no conscience? But no one showed any remorse. In the end, she had no choice but to take Lucy home, her heart aching as she saw the tears streaming down the little girl’s face.
That night, Lucy curled up in a corner of the house. “Am I really that hateful, Grandma?” Rose squeezed the little girl’s hands tightly. “No, my dear. You are more precious than anyone in this village. They just don’t see it.” While Lucy was shunned, Anthony, the perfect son of the Aldrich family, was the shining jewel of the village.
He grew up in luxury, showered with endless praise from the villagers. Anthony is so handsome, just like a true Aldrich. He will surely bring honor to our village one day. Lucy stood quietly from a distance, listening to the admiration for Anthony. He had everything she didn’t parents love. the villager’s admiration, a life free of worries.
One day, Lucy accidentally crossed paths with Anthony at the market. When she curiously looked at him, Anthony smirked in disdain. “Who are you?” Lucy stammered. “I’m Lucy.” Anthony let out a mocking laugh. “Never heard of you.” “Oh, wait. You’re that monster kid everyone talks about, aren’t you?” Lucy lowered her head, her heart aching. Anthony laughed louder and turned to his friends.
Look at this, guys. This is the cursed girl everyone’s afraid of. The other children immediately burst into laughter. One of them, James, taunted her. Lucy, ugly Lucy, you’re the bad omen of the whole village. Tears streamed down Lucy’s face as she ran home. Despite the villagers rejection, Lucy refused to give up. She buried herself in books, learning every letter that Rose taught her.
Rose often reassured her. You don’t need the approval of cruel people. They do not decide your fate. But no matter how hard Lucy tried, she could never escape the scorn of the village. Every time she stepped outside, she endured contemptuous staes and cruel whispers. And then the greatest tragedy of her life struck.
Winters in the mountainous regions of the Americas were bitterly cold. The freezing winds cut through flesh and seeped through the wooden cracks of the small house where Rose and Lucy lived. This winter was harsher than ever. Rose had grown old and frail. She coughed more often, and her sleep was restless.
Yet she still forced herself to get up every day, caring for Lucy with what little she had. Lucy noticed the changes in her. Rose’s steps had become slower, her hands no longer as steady as before. One night, as Rose hugged Lucy to lull her to sleep, the little girl hesitated before asking, “Grandma, are you okay?” Rose gently stroked Lucy’s hair. “I’m fine, my dear.
Old age just makes me a little tired. But Lucy didn’t believe her. She had seen the blood rose coughed up into her worn out handkerchief. She had seen her grandmother tremble whenever she walked, desperately searching for work. One morning, Lucy decided to leave home to find a job.
She was only 11 years old, but deep down she understood that she had to do something to help Rose. She went to every house in the village, knocking on doors and begging for work, any work. But all she received in return were cold stairs and cruel words. Mrs. Marissa crossed her arms and tilted her chin. You want to work in my house. Never. I won’t let bad luck into my home. Mr. Albert shook his head.
Do you think anyone would hire a cursed child like you? Get lost. Lucy bit her lip, holding back tears. She continued to the bakery, the inn, the vegetable stall, but no one gave her a chance. When she dragged her exhausted feet home, her hands empty. Her heart was filled with despair. Rose grew weaker by the day.
The persistent cough left her unable to eat properly. Her eyes sank deeper and her skin turned pale. Lucy knelt beside her, holding her cold hands. “Grandma, you need to see a doctor.” Rose forced a smile and cuped Lucy’s cheek. “It’s all right, my love. As long as I have you by my side, that’s enough.
” But Lucy didn’t believe that. She ran to Mrs. Camille’s house, one of the wealthier villagers. “Please, can I borrow money to get my grandmother treated? I will work to pay you back. But Mrs. Camille simply scoffed. You think I’d help someone like you. Get out. Lucy kept running, desperately searching for help.
She went to the village doctor, but he only shook his head. This illness requires expensive medicine. I can’t help without payment. Every door slammed shut in her face. That night, the wind howled through the walls, carrying a biting chill. Lucy sat beside Rose, clutching her grandmother’s hand tightly, desperately trying to keep her awake. Grandma, don’t sleep.
You have to stay with me. Rose slowly opened her eyes, her gaze tender but weary. Lucy, you are the most beautiful light in my life. Tears streamed down Lucy’s face. I don’t want that light to go out. Grandma, please don’t leave me. But Rose only smiled, her eyes gradually closing.
Her breaths grew weaker until they stopped entirely. Lucy froze. Her trembling hand reached out to touch Rose’s face. Grandma. Grandma. No warmth remained. No heartbeat. Lucy burst into sobs, hugging her lifeless grandmother in despair. The next morning, news of Rose’s death spread quickly through the village.
But instead of mourning, the villagers gossiped with cruel satisfaction. Mr. Albert shrugged. She should have abandoned that girl long ago. Keeping her only brought disaster. Mrs. Marissa nodded. Now that she’s dead, what about that child? Another villager spoke coldly. Get rid of her.
Who would want to live near a cursed girl? Lucy still sat beside Rose’s body, her eyes swollen and red, her heart shattered. Then a shadow appeared at the door. Anthony Aldridge. He stood there, arrogant and full of disdain. So the old hag finally died. Huh? Lucy looked up at him, tears still in her eyes. Don’t talk about her like that. Anthony smirked.
Why not? I’m just stating the truth. Now that no one’s here to protect you, how are you going to survive? Lucy clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. I’ll survive on my own. I don’t need anyone’s pity. Anthony shrugged. Well, then, good luck. But don’t expect anyone in this village to help you. He turned and walked away, leaving Lucy drowning in grief.
Without Rose, without anyone to protect her, Lucy became a ghost in the village. No one gave her food. No one gave her shelter. She had to scavenge for scraps of discarded bread, drink icy water from the stream just to survive. Each passing day, Lucy felt like a hollow shell. But deep in her small heart, a fire of anger burned silently. That winter was the longest and loneliest of Lucy’s life.
Without Rose, she became an unwanted burden to the village. If before at least Rose had been a reason for the villagers to restrain their cruelty, now nothing held them back. During the day, she wandered the streets, hoping someone would show her a sliver of kindness and offer her a piece of bread.
But every door slammed shut as she approached. “Get out! We have no place for someone like you. You’re a bad omen, Lucy. No one in this village wants you here. At night, she curled up in an abandoned corner of the marketplace, hugging her frail legs to keep warm. The wind howled, seeping through her tattered clothes.
Her empty stomach twisted in hunger, but there was nothing she could do but grit her teeth and endure. One day, as Lucy dragged her feet through the village, she unexpectedly stumbled upon a group of teenage boys gathered in the town square. Standing at the center of the group was Anthony Aldridge. He had grown taller, now a 16-year-old with a strikingly handsome appearance, tall, confident, and full of pride.
Anthony was the pride of the Aldridge family, the pride of the entire village. He wore a long, expensive coat, polished leather boots, completely opposite to Lucy’s filthy, ragged appearance. Lucy turned to leave, but Anthony had already spotted her. Hey, look who we have here,” he said loudly, his voice dripping with mockery.
Our village’s very own monster. The group of boys burst into laughter. One of them, Raphael, smirked. “Jesus, I thought she would have starved to death by now.” Lucy clenched her fists, saying nothing, just trying to walk away. But Anthony wasn’t done. He stepped forward, blocking her path.
Where do you think you’re going? Shouldn’t you be grateful we’ve let you live this long? Lucy looked up, her eyes burning with silent fury. I don’t need your pity. Anthony scoffed. Pity? Don’t be ridiculous. I just find it amusing to watch a sewer rat struggle. The group of teenagers burst into laughter. One of them, Daniel, spat on the ground. Lucy, I have a great idea.
Why don’t you just disappear for good? That way, we’d all feel a lot better. Lucy gritted her teeth and tried to slip past Anthony, but just as she moved forward, a rough hand yanked at the old scarf wrapped around her. Anthony snatched the scarf away, holding it high in the air. Look at this. This is all she has to keep warm.
Do you want it back, Lucy? Lucy sprang forward, trying to grab it, but Anthony was quicker. He sneered and tossed the scarf into the mud. Go ahead, pick it up. Pick it up if you need it that badly. Lucy looked at the scarf, now covered in filth, then looked up at Anthony.
The air grew tense, but instead of bending down, Lucy lifted her head high. I’d rather freeze to death than do what you tell me to. Anthony raised an eyebrow. He hadn’t expected her to fight back. For a brief moment, their eyes met, one filled with arrogance, the other with defiance. Anthony didn’t like that. His smirk twisted into something cruel, and suddenly he shoved Lucy hard.
She tumbled to the ground, her knees scraping against the sharp rocks, leaving them bloody. Next time, know your place, monster,” Anthony said coldly before turning away. By the time Anthony returned to the Aldrich mansion, the sun had begun to set. He stroed into the grand living room where his mother, Isabella, was reading a book.
“Mother, did you hear something interesting today?” Anthony sneered. “That girl, Lucy, is still alive. She’s like a cockroach refusing to die.” Isabella flinched, setting her book down. What? She still exists. Anthony shrugged. Of course, she still wanders around the village like a stray dog. I saw her today. Isabella’s face darkened.
She cannot be allowed to exist. She is a disgrace to our family. Her hands tightened around her teacup, her voice trembling with hatred. Anthony, you must do something. I don’t want to see her ever again. Anthony smirked. Don’t worry, mother. I’ll take care of it. From that day on, Anthony didn’t just mock Lucy.
He used his family’s power to ensure that the entire village turned against her completely. The inkeeper threw her out. No one would hire her. No one would sell her food. The doors that had once been barely a jar were now slammed shut in her face. Lucy grew hungrier, colder. She was forced to scavenge scraps from the marketplace, collecting discarded pieces of bread.
One day, as she crouched down to pick up a fallen piece of bread, a scoffing voice rang out behind her. Anthony stood there surrounded by his friends. Look at that. She really has become a sewer rat. The group erupted in laughter. Lucy clenched her fists, her heart burning with rage. But she knew she couldn’t do anything yet.
She needed to be stronger. She needed to survive. And for the first time in her life, Lucy thought about leaving. The sky over New York was gray, heavy with the promise of rain. Lucy walked along the rough dirt road, her bare feet bleeding from the sharp stones. She had grown accustomed to the knowing hunger, the scornful staires, the cruel laughter.
But today, something felt different. The villagers had gathered in front of Beatatric’s bakery, chattering in hushed, urgent voices. As Lucy approached, they immediately fell silent, but their gazes bore into her with open hostility. Lucy felt something was wrong. Suddenly, a tall man stepped out from the crowd. Thomas, the owner of the villages only inn. Lucy, he said coldly.
You’re no longer allowed to stay here. Lucy froze. What did you just say? Thomas crossed his arms, looking at her with disdain. I’ve received orders from someone important. You’re not allowed to sleep in the market anymore, and you can’t wander around the village. It’s best if you disappear. Lucy clenched her fists. Orders from who? Thomas smirked.
Do you even need to ask? Everyone knows Anthony is the one who calls the shots here. A surge of anger boiled in Lucy’s chest. Anthony is not the king of this village. Thomas scoffed. No, but everyone fears the Aldrich family. You’re just a useless stray, Lucy. If you don’t want to be thrown out by force, you’d better leave on your own.
The villagers began murmuring among themselves. Some nodded in agreement while others merely watched in silence, unwilling to speak up for Lucy. Lucy took a step back, her heart pounding. I won’t go anywhere. I haven’t done anything wrong. Suddenly, Mrs. Marissa spoke up, her voice dripping with malice. You are the curse of this village.
You bring misfortune to all of us. If you stay here, disaster will surely follow. Voices of agreement echoed through the crowd. Lucy felt as if the ground beneath her had crumbled. She had nowhere to go. Desperate, Lucy ran to Mrs. Camille’s house, the woman who had once been Rose’s close friend. She knocked frantically, her voice trembling. Mrs. Camille, please. I have nowhere else to go.
Can you help me? After a long moment, the door creaked open. But instead of the warm, familiar gaze she had hoped for, Lucy was met with cold, detached eyes. Camille crossed her arms, her expression unreadable. Lucy, you need to understand. No one wants you here. Tears welled in Lucy’s eyes. But But you were Grandma Rose’s friend. Camille sighed.
Yes, but she’s gone now. I can’t risk helping you. I’m sorry, but you need to leave. The door slammed shut in Lucy’s face. She stood there, tears spilling down her cheeks. One by one, she went to every house in the village. But the answer was always the same cold stairs in different glances and doors shutting tight. That was when Lucy understood. She was utterly alone.
Three days passed. Lucy was so hungry that she could barely walk. Her weak, trembling legs carried her to the marketplace where she eyed the discarded pieces of bread lying by the roadside. Hesitating for a moment, she finally reached down to pick up a stale piece and brought it to her lips. Suddenly, a voice sneered behind her. Look, guys.
The little monster is eating garbage. Lucy froze. In front of her stood Anthony Aldridge, accompanied by his group of friends. Daniel burst into laughter. Wow, I’ve never seen anyone this pathetic before. Anthony smirked, looking thoroughly entertained. She really is a sewer rat. Not only is she cursed, but now she’s a beggar, too.
Lucy felt her face burn with shame and anger. She clenched a piece of bread in her hand, but refused to throw it away. No matter how much they mocked her, she had to survive. Anthony stepped closer, crouching down so that his voice was just above a whisper. I want you to understand something, Lucy. You don’t belong here. You’re just trash.
Lucy lifted her gaze, her eyes burning with defiance. One day, I’ll prove you wrong. Anthony chuckled. “Oh well, I’ll be waiting to see when that day comes.” He turned away, his friends laughing as they followed him. Lucy clenched her fists, silently, vowing that one day they would all pay for this. She dragged herself to the corner of the marketplace and curled into a ball.
She had no more strength to cry. The sky darkened, and soon the rain began to fall. Cold raindrops pelted her fragile body, making her shiver violently. In the darkness, Lucy thought of Rose. She remembered her grandmother’s warm voice, the gentle way she used to stroke her hair at night. “You can’t give up, Lucy.” Lucy closed her eyes, pushing back the crushing despair. She had to survive.
No matter what, she could not let them see her break. She lifted her head and stared toward the horizon. And for the first time in her life, she allowed herself to think of something she had never dared consider before. Leaving this place. The following days only proved that the nightmare wasn’t over. It wasn’t enough that the villagers shunned her.
Anthony and his gang now used her as their favorite source of entertainment. During the day, whenever she walked through the village, they would whistle, point, and throw stones while hurling insults. “Lucy, monsters shouldn’t exist. Aren’t you ashamed to still be alive?” At night, Anthony and his friends would sneak to the marketplace where she slept.
They used charcoal to scroll hateful messages on the walls. “Cursed child. Grandma Rose died because of you. Get out of this village now. Every morning, Lucy woke up to those words. Each time it felt like a knife slicing through her heart, but she had no more tears left to cry.
One morning, as Lucy left her sleeping spot, she noticed that Beatatric’s bakery had been vandalized with black charcoal. The monster has touched this store. Don’t come here if you don’t want bad luck. A crowd had gathered in front of the shop, voices rising in heated discussion. Beatatrice was furious, pointing a trembling finger at Lucy.
“You did this, didn’t you?” Lucy froze. “No, I didn’t do anything.” But no one believed her. Thomas scoffed. “Of course it was her, the cursed child. She wants to drag us all down to hell with her. An old woman’s voice rang out. We should drive her out of the village. That’s right, someone else shouted. She has no right to stay here. Lucy stepped back, her heart pounding.
Please, I haven’t done anything wrong. But the crowd had lost all reason. A man suddenly threw a broken brick at her. The jagged edge scraped across her arm, leaving a deep cut. Blood dripped onto the ground, dark red against the dirt. Lucy gasped, her whole body trembling from pain and fear. But deep inside her, something snapped.
A flame of rage burned hotter than ever before. Lucy would not endure this anymore. She lifted her head, her eyes burning with determination. Why do you all hate me so much? For a moment, the crowd fell silent. Lucy took a shaky step forward despite the searing pain in her body. I have never hurt anyone.
I have never done anything wrong. But what about you? You treat me like I’m a monster. A few people shifted uncomfortably, but Anthony did not. He smirked and stepped forward. Do you think you can stand up against us? Lucy met his gaze headon, her voice firm. One day I will leave this place and I will become someone you will never dare to look down on again.
Anony’s smirk faltered for a split second. Are you threatening us? Lucy didn’t answer. She turned and ran out of the crowd. Inside the Aldridge mansion, Isabella’s fury exploded. She threw her teacup to the ground, porcelain shattering across the floor. Anthony, you mean to tell me that she’s still here? Anthony lounged in his chair, arms crossed.
Mother, I’ve done everything to make sure she has no place in this village. She’s barely holding on. Isabella clenched her jaw. I don’t want her to be barely holding on. I want her to disappear completely. Anthony smirked. Don’t worry, mother. She won’t last much longer. Isabella exhaled sharply, but the hatred in her eyes remained. I don’t want any loose ends.
I never want to see her again. Anthony nodded. Understood, mother. But he had no idea that Lucy had a different plan. That night, Lucy packed what little she had. A tattered scarf, a stale piece of bread, a small knife that Rose had once given her. She couldn’t stay here any longer. If she did, she would die. She had to leave.
But where? Lucy looked up at the vast starry sky and took a deep breath. Rose had once told her New York is a big place full of opportunities for those who never give up. New York. Maybe that was where she needed to go. Lucy clenched her fists. I won’t let them destroy my life.
Then before the first light of dawn, Lucy left behind the village that had been her nightmare. She walked forward, never looking back. Lucy trudged through the darkness, her bare feet bleeding from the sharp stones on the rugged path leading away from the village. She had no money, no food, except for the stale piece of bread tucked inside her torn coat. The freezing night wind bit into her skin, but she didn’t stop.
She had nothing left to lose. Everything in that village had been nothing but pain. Each step carried the weight of her hatred and determination. She would never return to that place again. The outskirts of New York were dark and eerily silent. Towering trees loomed overhead, their dense canopies blocking out most of the sky.
Only faint beams of moonlight filtered through the leaves, barely illuminating the narrow path Lucy carefully navigated. Her stomach twisted painfully from hunger, but she didn’t dare stop. Every small noise in the forest made her jump. I have to keep going. I can’t stop, she told herself, forcing her feet to move faster. Suddenly, a rustling sound echoed from behind her.
Lucy froze, her heart pounding wildly. She turned, but all she saw was darkness. “Is someone there?” she asked, her voice trembling. No answer. Then another sound footsteps. Lucy sucked in a sharp breath and took off running. She had no idea how far she ran, only that she couldn’t stop. By the time she collapsed in a small clearing, her heart was pounding so hard it hurt.
Her breaths came in ragged gasps. Then a voice cut through the night. “Where are you running off to in such a hurry, Lucy?” Lucy’s blood ran cold. She turned slowly and saw Anthony standing there, flanked by Daniel and Raphael. All three of them smirked, their eyes gleaming with cruel amusement. Lucy took a step back. Why are you here? Anthony shrugged casually.
We heard you were leaving the village, so we thought, why not send you off properly? Daniel let out a loud laugh, or maybe keep you around. After all, you’re the best entertainment we have. Fear clawed at Lucy’s chest, but she refused to let it show. her fingers tightened around the small knife she had hidden behind her back. “Get lost, Anthony,” she said, her voice hard.
“Anthony laughed.” “Oh, are you giving me orders now?” He stepped forward, grabbing Lucy’s chin and squeezing. “Did you really think you could escape me?” Lucy clenched her teeth and ripped herself free from his grasp. “I’m not the scared little girl I used to be.” Anony’s eyes darkened.
Oh, is that so? Smack. His palm struck her face hard. Lucy fell to the ground, her cheek burning with pain. But she didn’t cry. She looked up at Anthony, her eyes blazing with hatred. Anthony crouched down, grabbing the knife from her hand and holding it up. And what were you going to do with this? Kill me? He laughed and tossed the knife aside.
But Lucy didn’t need the knife to fight. She grabbed a handful of wet dirt and flung it straight into Anony’s eyes. “At!” he yelled, stumbling backward, rubbing at his face. “Lucy seized the moment and kicked his leg as hard as she could.” “Anthony lost his balance and crashed to the ground.
” Daniel and Raphael froze, stunned. Lucy didn’t wait. She turned and sprinted into the forest. Behind her, Anthony roared, “Catch her!” The sound of footsteps thundered after her. Lucy felt her heart slamming against her ribs. She couldn’t let them catch her. She had to escape.
Up ahead, the trees thinned, revealing the faint glow of a road. Lucy pushed her legs harder, running towards it with everything she had left. She burst out of the forest and tumbled onto a gravel road. As she lifted her head, she saw a carriage barreling toward her. The driver, an old man with silver hair, Arnold yanked on the rains, stopping the horses just in time.
“You there? What are you doing out here at this hour?” he demanded. Lucy gasped for air, her whole body shaking. “Please take me away from here.” Arnold’s gaze swept over her bruised face, her dirt covered skin, and her wounded feet. His expression hardened. “Who did this to you?” Lucy didn’t get a chance to answer.
Behind her, Anthony and his gang burst from the trees. Arnold understood immediately. He reached out his hand. “Get in now.” Lucy didn’t hesitate. She grabbed Arnold’s hand and scrambled into the carriage. They’re coming after me. Please go. Arnold snapped the rains and the horses bolted forward. The carriage raced off into the night.
Lucy turned back one last time, locking eyes with Anthony, who stood in the middle of the road, his face twisted in rage. He shouted something after her, but Lucy couldn’t hear him anymore. She was gone. she would never return to that village. The carriage rode through the night, carrying Lucy toward an unknown future. As dawn broke, Lucy opened her eyes and realized she was in a completely different world.
New York, a vast, noisy place, but full of opportunities. She took a deep breath. She was no longer the weak, despised child. She would start over. And one day, she would make every single person who had humiliated her regret it. Lucy stepped down from Arnold’s carriage just as the first rays of sunlight spread across the sky.
Before her stretched the bustling city of New York cobblestone streets, lively cafes, towering buildings higher than anything she had ever seen. Her heart pounded with both excitement and anxiety. “Where are you going now?” Arnold asked, his voice filled with concern. Lucy shook her head. I don’t know, but I’ll find a way to survive.
Arnold sighed, then pulled out a few coins and pressed them into her hand. Take this, girl. In New York, you won’t last long without money. Lucy stared at the money in her palm, her eyes stinging. For the first time, someone had helped her without looking down on her. Thank you. I won’t forget this. Arnold gave her a kind smile before urging his horses forward, leaving Lucy alone in the vast city.
She wandered through unfamiliar streets, searching for shelter. She knew she couldn’t waste the money Arnold had given her. She passed bakeries, the scent of fresh bread making her stomach twist painfully with hunger, but she couldn’t afford to spend everything on just one meal. Finally, Lucy found herself in a slum district where New York’s poorest residents lived.
She rented a tiny, dark corner in a cramped boarding house owned by an old woman named Stella, a strict but not entirely unkind woman. The old woman narrowed her eyes at Lucy. You got money, kid? Lucy handed her a few coins. I just need a place to sleep. Stella huffed but took the money. Fine. But I don’t give out charity. If you want to stay, you have to work.
Lucy nodded immediately. I’ll do anything. The next day, Lucy walked into a school for poor children, a place where kids without families or money still had a chance to learn. She met the head teacher, Mr. Matthew, a middle-aged man with a thick beard and a stern gaze. I want to study here, Lucy said firmly. Matthew eyed her from head to toe.
Do you have money for tuition? Lucy shook her head. But I can work. I’ll clean the floors, scrub the classrooms, anything. Just give me a chance. Matthew was silent for a long moment, then nodded. Fine. If you’re willing to work, I’ll let you study. For the first time in years, Lucy smiled.
From then on, Lucy’s days began before dawn. She woke up early to clean the classrooms, scrub the floors, and do every job no one else wanted to do. When the other students arrived, she put away her cleaning rags and sat at a desk like any other student. She devoured every word in her books. She solved every math problem with fierce determination.
No matter how exhausted she was, she never gave up. Every time she thought of her past, the humiliation, the hunger, the suffering, she reminded herself, “I can’t stop. I have to keep moving forward.” 3 years passed. Lucy didn’t just complete her education. She surpassed everyone.
She read faster, solved math problems more easily, and wrote essays sharper than any of her classmates. Even Mr. Matthew had to acknowledge her brilliance. One day, he called her into his office and placed a letter in front of her. “This is a scholarship to one of the most prestigious medical universities in New York,” he said. “I’ve recommended you.” Lucy’s eyes widened. “What?” Matthew smiled.
“You have talent. You deserve a better future.” Lucy held the letter in her hands, and for the first time in years, tears fell from her eyes. She had once been a discarded child-hated, starved, pushed to the brink of death. But now she had a chance to rewrite her fate.
The day Lucy left Stella’s boarding house, the old woman simply crossed her arms and huffed. “You think you’re something special now?” Lucy only smiled. “I’m not special. I just never gave up.” Stella studied her for a long moment, then gave a small nod. Then prove it, kid. Lucy bowed her head in gratitude and walked away. She was no longer the weak Lucy from before.
She was stepping toward a future she once thought was impossible. On her way to medical school, Lucy stopped in front of a shop window where a large mirror reflected her image. She stared at herself. She was no longer the abandoned child in the forest. She was no longer the outcast girl the villagers scorned. Now she was a promising medical student with a bright future ahead.
But even after all these years, Lucy knew there was something she could never forget. The people who had made her suffer. The ones who had tried to break her. Soon they would pay. And she would be the one to decide their fate. Years had passed since Lucy left that cursed village. New York had changed her life forever.
From a poor, abandoned girl, Lucy had risen to become the leading reconstructive surgeon in the Americas. No one could look down on her anymore. She was no longer the cursed child. She was a successful, brilliant woman, shining among the elite of society. But no matter how far she had come, there was one thing Lucy would never forget.
the people who had trampled on her and fate had decided it was time for them to face her again. One evening, Lucy attended the Golden Hands ceremony, an event honoring doctors who had made remarkable contributions to medicine. The host excitedly announced, “Please welcome Dr. Lucy Aldridge, the leading reconstructive surgeon in the Americas.
” The audience erupted into applause. Lucy stepped onto the stage in an elegant gown. her long hair neatly pinned up. She smiled confidently, but deep inside she knew. Somewhere there were people watching this broadcast, unable to believe their eyes. In the old village, a small cafe had its television tuned to the live event.
The villagers gathered, watching casually, unaware of who they were about to see. Then Lucy appeared on the screen. An elderly woman gasped. Am I Am I seeing things? Mrs. Marissa’s jaw dropped. No way. That’s the cursed girl. The cafe fell into an eerie silence. No one could believe the truth staring them in the face.
But what about Richard, Isabella, and Anthony Aldridge? Since Lucy had left, the Aldrich family was no longer the most powerful in the region. Richard had fallen into financial ruin due to poor business decisions. Isabella was no longer the revered noble woman now. She was nothing more than a bitter old woman living in delusions of past glory.
And Anthony, once the golden boy, once the arrogant heir, was now nothing. He suffered from a rare skin disease, one that had left his once perfect face covered in scars. He had searched for countless doctors, but no one could cure him. And tonight, as he watched Lucy standing in the spotlight, he realized fate had begun its punishment.
The very next morning, Anthony arrived at Lucy’s hospital. He wore an old, worn out suit, his once proud face now filled with desperation. He approached the receptionist, his voice trembling. I need to see Dr. Lucy Aldridge. The nurse looked up, frowning. Do you have an appointment? No, but tell her I’m her brother. The nurse froze, then quickly relayed the message.
A few minutes later, Lucy appeared. She stood there in her pristine white coat, radiating power and authority. Anthony barely recognized her. Lucy looked him up and down, her gaze calm, but ice cold. What do you want? Her voice was composed, but Anthony could feel the invisible wall between them. He swallowed hard, lowering his voice.
“Lucy, please, can you help me?” Lucy raised an eyebrow. “Why should I help you?” Anthony hesitated. “You’re the best reconstructive surgeon. You can save me.” Lucy remained silent for a long moment. Then she stepped closer, looking straight into his eyes.
Do you remember what you did to me, Anthony? He lowered his gaze, ashamed. Lucy’s voice turned sharper. You mocked me, hit me, chased me out of the village like a stray dog. You told me I didn’t deserve to live. Anthony clenched his fists, his whole body trembling. You, you’re right. I was wrong. But please don’t treat me the way I treated you. Lucy stared at him.
For a moment, Anthony thought she would refuse. But then Lucy nodded. Her voice was quiet but firm. There are some wounds that can never be healed, Anthony. But I will not become like you once were. Anony’s eyes widened in shock. Lucy continued. I will treat you not because I forgive you, but because I refuse to become the monster you and your mother were. Anthony could hardly believe what he was hearing.
Lucy was still willing to help him even after all he had done. He fell to his knees before her, tears streaming down his face. “Thank you. Thank you, Lucy.” But Lucy simply turned and walked away. To her, Anthony was just another patient. Nothing more, nothing less. The surgery was a success.
Anthony was cured, but he could never again look Lucy in the eye. As for Richard and Isabella, the ones who had once denied her existence, they no longer had the right to call her their daughter. As Lucy stepped out of the hospital, she took a deep breath. The New York sky was clear and blue. She had won.
Not by seeking revenge, but by rising so high that those who once crushed her could never reach her again. The past no longer held her captive. Lucy was finally free. Lucy had completed the surgery. She had saved Anthony, not out of familial love, but because she wanted to prove that she was nothing like them. Even as Anthony fell to his knees, begging for forgiveness, even as tears of regret streamed down his face, Lucy no longer cared.
She was no longer the weak, desperate girl who once pleaded for mercy. She was Lucy Aldridge, the top reconstructive surgeon in the Americas. A woman no one could ever look down on again. News of Lucy spread everywhere, not just on television, but all the way back to the village that once cast her out. The same people who had once cursed her, driven her away like a stray dog, now stood frozen before the truth. Mrs.
Marissa, the woman who once screamed for Lucy to be exiled, shook as she watched the TV screen. “We we were too cruel to her,” she whispered. “Mr. Albert, the man who had once thrown a brick at her, lowered his head. If I had known, I wouldn’t have done it. But they all knew it was too late. Lucy didn’t need their regret.
She would never return to that place again. Meanwhile, Richard Aldridge, once a proud nobleman, had fallen into disgrace. He had lost nearly everything, his wealth, his influence, his power, all because of his own failures. But the greatest pain for him was knowing that the daughter he once despised discarded like trash had become a shining star while he faded into nothing. Isabella was no better off.
She sat alone in the cold empty Aldridge mansion. The once glamorous parties, the adoring admirers long gone. When she saw Lucy on TV, her eyes filled with horror. No. No. This can’t be real. She wasn’t supposed to exist. But no matter how much she denied it, the truth remained. Lucy had not only survived, she had risen higher than anyone could have imagined.
After being discharged from the hospital, Anthony returned to the mansion. He was no longer the arrogant boy he once was. Every time he looked in the mirror, even though his face had been healed, he still felt the deep humiliation carved into his soul. He had once thought Lucy was nothing, but now he was the one left behind.
Anthony stepped into the grand but empty living room where his mother sat, trembling in front of the television. She turned to him, her eyes read. Anthony, you have to do something. You must restore our family’s honor. But Anthony only let out a bitter laugh. Restore our honor. We never had any honor, mother. Then, without another word, he walked away, leaving Isabella alone in the hollow mansion, because he knew the truth. The Aldridge family had ended long ago.
One month later, Lucy was invited to one of the most prestigious medical awards ceremonies in the Americas. The hall was magnificent, filled with hundreds of people. But when Lucy stepped onto the stage, every eye turned to her. The host smiled. Dr. Lucy Aldridge, do you have anything you’d like to share? Lucy looked out at the audience.
She took a deep breath. Then she spoke. I was once a child who was abandoned. The hall fell silent. Lucy continued, her voice calm but strong. I was once called a curse. I was cast out, beaten, and starved. But I survived. I rose above it. And today I stand here not for revenge, but to say one thing. She paused for a moment.
Then she smiled. True beauty is not found in the face, but in the heart. The room erupted into applause. The audience stood, cheering her name, celebrating her as a hero. But somewhere far away, the people who had once mocked her, tortured her, and exiled her could only bow their heads in shame. Richard Aldridge spent the final years of his life in isolation. No one respected him anymore.
The whispers around him were no longer of admiration, but mockery. Isabella, once a powerful socialite, was now completely forgotten. Even the same people who had once worshiped her had turned their backs on her. And Anthony, he had been healed physically. But his soul would always bear scars that could never be erased.
Every time he looked in the mirror, he no longer saw Anthony Aldridge, the golden air. He saw a defeated man, a ghost of the past. And Lucy, she never looked back. She had closed the door on her past and stepped into the future she built with her own hands. The people who had wronged her had already faced their punishment. But Lucy no longer cared about them. She had won.
Not through revenge, but by becoming the greatest version of herself. Lucy, the child once cursed, beaten, and cast away, was now the one who shined the brightest. She didn’t need to take revenge because fate had already done it for her. And in the end, Lucy had found true freedom.
Life is not decided by circumstances or the judgments of others. It is shaped by our own determination and perseverance. Lucy proved that even when cast aside, even when despised, one can rise above it all as long as they never give up. Forgiveness is not weakness. It is proof that we have risen far beyond those who once hurt us.
And most importantly, a person’s worth is not in their face, their background, or the opinions of others. It is in their resilience, their kindness, and their ability to shape their own destiny.
