Chapter 8.

The Unexpected Arrival.

Marina looked out the window of the plane as it descended over Elmor. The city lights flickered in the distance, welcoming her to a country She had never visited before, but it had now become a crucial place for her best friend's well-being.

 She hadn't told Brenna about her arrival; she needed to see the situation for herself and act immediately.

Once the plane landed and Marina went through customs, she headed to collect her luggage. Her heart was pounding, not only from the excitement of the trip, but also from the concern she felt for Brenna. She knew her friend was in pain and needed support, but she also knew she had to be clever to get Brenna to accept her help.

Marina took a taxi and headed to the apartment she had rented in advance. Upon arrival, she quickly settled in and, after making sure everything was in order, decided to make the call she had been mentally preparing since the flight.

She dialed Brenna's number, and after a few rings, her friend answered in a weak, tired voice. Hi, Marina...

Brenna, Marina said, trying to sound as calm as possible, I need you to come to the train station. It's urgent, but you must come alone.

¿The train station? Brenna replied, clearly confused. ¿What are you doing?

Just trust me. I'll explain everything to you when you get there. But please don't say anything to Shuhang and come alone, Marina insisted, her tone firm but comforting.

Brenna, though intrigued and a little worried, agreed to her friend's request. Okay. I'll come right away.

After hanging up, Marina took a deep breath and headed to the train station. She knew she had to handle this carefully. She didn't want Brenna to feel betrayed by her unexpected arrival, but she also knew that her presence was necessary to help her see the reality of the situation.

Arriving at the station, Marina looked for a discreet place to wait. She watched the people passing by, feeling strangely calm amidst the hustle and bustle. She knew that at any moment, Brenna would appear, and she hoped she had the right words to comfort her and offer her the help she so desperately needed.

Finally, she saw Brenna approach. Her friend's face was pale and her eyes were swollen from crying, but there was also a spark of determination in her gaze. Marina stood up and walked towards her, opening her arms for a hug.

Marina, ¿what are you doing here? Brenna asked, surprised.

I'm here because I love you and because I couldn't just sit there knowing what you're going through, Marina replied, holding Brenna tightly. Come on, we have a lot to talk about.

As they headed to a nearby cafe, Marina felt like she was finally in the right place to help her friend. She knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy. After the food orders came and they both ate their fill, Marina broke the silence.

That man is an idiot, I don't like him. I don't know what you see in him. He looks like a train ran over him, he's horrible as hell, Marina said, trying to contain her frustration.

Brenna, hurt by her friend's words, replied: Of course he's not like you say. He's a handsome, strong, and very attractive man.

Making a disgusted face, Marina replied: I don't know where the attractiveness is. I think he didn't get in line when they said in the afterlife that it was the distribution of attractiveness. He just didn't get in line. He's worse than a stripped cockroach…

Marina sighed, trying to calm down. Look, Brenna, I understand that you're in love with him. But I can't stand to see how he hurts you. I just want you to see what's going on and realize that you deserve better.

Brenna looked at her friend, knowing she was right, but unable to help the feelings she had for Shuhang. Thank you, Marina. I know you only want the best for me. But it's hard... it's hard to stop loving him.

Marina took Brenna's hand and squeezed it lovingly. I know, friend. But I'm here to help you see the truth, and I won't let you destroy yourself for someone who doesn't value you as they should.