Ella was only twenty-two when life cornered her into a cruel choice.
She grew up in poverty. Her mother was battling a lung disease, her younger brother couldn’t go to school because they couldn’t afford the fees, and she—just a simple girl—dreamed of a better life, even if it meant losing her own freedom.
One night, a rumor spread through their neighborhood.
A wealthy man named Don Armando was looking for a wife.
He was said to be fat—almost as wide as a refrigerator—and nearly twice her age. Yet people spoke of him kindly, describing him as generous and good-hearted.
“Daughter,” her mother said weakly, coughing between her words, “maybe this is your chance… so we don’t have to suffer anymore.”
Ella looked at her mother’s frail figure and her brother’s empty school bag. And that night, out of desperation, she made her decision.
