I Got Married Without You

The vibration sound of my phone woke me up. I felt around the bed to locate the source. Not finding it, I got up and leaned against the headboard. I glanced at the square object on the nightstand, realizing I hadn't placed it there.

My gaze fell on the window near the bed. There was a small crack, the window was open. I sighed; this was happening again. I couldn't leave the window open while sleeping. I always locked it, but every morning I'd find it open.

The clock's hands pointed to eight. Mr. Sony's class would start soon. Uncomfortably, I tried to ignore the incident. It wasn't the first or second time. I hoped it was just my forgetfulness about locking the window.

Passing the full-body mirror near the bathroom, my steps halted. I observed my unusual appearance. There was a small red mark on the left side of my neck. I touched it, feeling no pain. I was sure it wasn't there last night.

I couldn't have injured my own neck. I still take care of myself. I felt a shiver down my spine. Could this be the work of another being? Or a vampire?

It sounded increasingly absurd. I quickly cleaned up in the bathroom. I had class in about an hour. I lived alone here, far from my hometown and parents. To continue my scholarship, I accepted this separation from my mom and dad. However, they visited once a month to ease the longing.

After getting ready, I headed to the kitchen for breakfast. The house wasn't too small or too big, with one bedroom, a kitchen, and a living room with a television. Despite occasional loneliness, I still enjoyed life.

Walking towards the door, I noticed a small red-colored paper under the door crack. It was folded, hiding its contents. Again. I found this paper again today. Until when would this continue? I grabbed the paper and read its contents.

Morning Samara,

Today you have a busy schedule.

Don't forget your breakfast and health.

I don't want to see you sick.

As I suspected, it was something like this. Today's letter wasn't much different from the ones I've been finding lately. At the end of the paper, I saw a faint, small signature. As usual, I threw the paper in the trash can in front of the house.

As long as these strange things don't harm me, I'll endure them. Once I complained to my mom and dad, but their response was only a mocking smile. They started thinking I had a lover, and these incidents were the actions of my admirer. Impossible.

Chasing the ever-dwindling time, I walked towards the bus stop. When the bus arrives, I immediately board and take a seat near the left corner window. I scan my surroundings. The bus is crowded with school students, college students, mothers, and men standing, leaning against the poles.

Feeling secure, I start breathing easily. Almost every morning, I feel threatened. People seem suspicious to me. Sometimes I feel like I'm being watched, but I can't find the source of my concerns.

I press the stop button on the bus, indicating that I've reached. After thanking the driver, I walk a bit into the campus gate. This morning is quite cloudy, perfect weather for relaxation, but not for me. Mr. Sony's assignment is waiting to be submitted.

"Nadia!"

I turn as my name is called. Hana. A girl of mixed Asian blood with bangs on her forehead embraces me. I lean slightly forward and reciprocate by hugging her around the neck. So far, Hana is the only one I can trust; she's been with me since the beginning of our time in college.

"Surprisingly, you're up early today? Usually, you arrive five minutes before the professor enters," I tease.

Hana snorts, "Today is Mr. Sony's class. I don't want to be embarrassed in front of the class like yesterday. Besides, he gave us an assignment. That old man is really annoying."

I dismiss Hana's grumbling like a passing breeze. She always complains at every opportunity, even though I know she's intelligent and has many achievements in the field of science. Hana even went to the Netherlands to participate in an international competition. Plus, she has a sociable nature.