Sold to Dubai: My Family’s Betrayal
Chapter 6: The Chokehold
His veins bulged as he squeezed my throat, nearly choking me out. Black spots danced at the edge of my vision. My hands scrabbled at his wrist, but I didn’t cry out.
In my first life, I grew up like this—like a baby elephant chained from birth, never even thinking of fighting back. Now, with a second chance, I knew I could break free. But this time, I still didn’t resist.
“Didn’t you get my meaning earlier? Are you looking for trouble?”
I gasped, “Dad, I have another way—just let go…”
He finally let go and shoved me hard. “Speak. What way?”
I caught my breath and told him: even if my stepmother wouldn’t let him go, he could just follow them on his own. After they landed, he could catch up—what was she going to do, make him fly home by himself?
He thought about it, nodded, and ordered, “Then get my passport and ticket, too. Make sure I’m not sitting with them. Got it?”
I nodded fast.
After he left, I sat on the edge of my bed, rubbing my neck, staring at the worn-out rug and stack of red past-due envelopes on my dresser. Our mailbox was stuffed with overdue bills, and the only thing in the fridge was a half-empty bottle of ketchup. I used to pray things would get better, but now I just planned. No one was coming to save me.
