Chapter 4 - A Desperate Plea
The afternoon route felt like it lasted for an eternity.
The loud chatter of the students usually brought Arthur joy.
Today, it just gave him a pounding headache.
He kept stealing glances at Maya through the mirror.
She looked pale, exhausted, and utterly defeated.
When the bus finally emptied, Maya stayed seated for an extra moment.
She reached into the vent, retrieved a pill, and quickly swallowed it without water.
She gagged slightly, tears welling up in her eyes.
Arthur could not take it anymore.
He turned off the engine and stood up.
"Maya," he said gently, taking a step toward her.
She froze, her eyes wide with absolute terror.
"I know what's in the vent," Arthur whispered.
Maya let out a choked sob and buried her face in her hands.
"Please don't tell him," she begged, her voice cracking.
"I won't tell him, but I want to help you," Arthur promised.
May you like
She shook her head violently, grabbed her backpack, and ran off the bus.
Arthur watched her run toward the house, feeling sick to his stomach.
