When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie)

"Got the wrong address, huh?" I was puzzled. Clyde had just texted me, saying he'd sent over some food.

My stomach growled. After a busy day without a bite, I realized I was starving.

The delivery guy confirmed Clyde's name and phone number. "Can you confirm, please?"

"I guess..." I was at a loss for words. Maybe Clyde was being his usual thoughtful self?

Recalling our college days, his gestures of care brought a slight smile to my lips.

However, seeing eggplant in the delivery, my least favorite food, I felt disappointed. Had Clyde forgotten again? He might relish eggplant, but I certainly did not. But hunger made me less picky, and the food from this place didn't taste too bad after all.

Perhaps it was the sudden release from a day's stress, but I felt unexpectedly drowsy. Living in a spacious apartment had its perks, yet without Rocky, it felt incredibly lonely.

The doorbell rang again as I was about to drift off.

"Good evening, your fruit delivery is here!"

"Would you I mind opening the door? I'll bring the fruits up for you." Carrying two boxes of fruits, the delivery person looked worn out.

I thought Clyde should have known better. The nearby grocery store offered delivery.

Clyde, who rarely lifted a finger for household chores, probably didn't have the store's contact. Resigned, I went to open the door.

"Mrs. Patterson, can I leave these at the door?"

Seeing cherries, strawberries, and watermelon in the boxes, I wondered if Clyde had lost his mind. Was the fact that we didn't catch Kayla reason enough to stockpile like it was the end of the world?

I nodded. “Just leave the fruits here. It's fine."

The delivery person handed me the bill, looking slightly embarrassed.

"Mrs. Patterson, sorry, we couldn't cut the watermelon, so it's over the weight limit. You didn't answer your phone. Would you like me to take it back, or would you prefer to pay the difference?"

Seeing the delivery guy drenched in sweat, I couldn't help but feel sympathy. "I'll cover the difference. How much is it?"

The delivery person answered, "It's $10.99. Here's the receipt. You can pay via your phone."This text is © NôvelDrama/.Org.

I took the receipt, turning to grab my phone. Something felt off when the delivery guy stepped inside.

I paused, my hand on my phone, and quickly dialed 911, but then I saw him pulling out his phone.

The delivery guy added, "Here's the

if there's any issue wel

guarantee compensation."

Thinking of how much effort it might be for him over a few bucks, I finally relaxed. "Okay, ten bucks and..."

Suddenly, he sprayed something on my face.

I felt dizzy, but he steadied me. "Top-notch stuff, huh? Can you still stand?"

My body felt out of control. I was weak, yet I remained upright.

He sighed in relief and whispered, "Walk out with me, lock the door, and smile."

My lips twitched into a smile, but my body swayed. I followed the delivery guy into the elevator, my vision darkened, and I passed out.

Then, a familiar perfume wafted over me, sending a shock through me. Kayla was in the car!