Stolen Words to Your Heart

‘Was my passion for erotic poetry a mistake? Did I invite this scrutiny upon myself by daring to explore the depths of human desire and vulnerability?- Lara B.

--

"W-what, disqualified? Bu- but I just wrote this poem last night and I've never-" Lara's words were interrupted as the line went dead, leaving Lara shocked with beeping silence of the phone. Her fingers trembled as she clutched the phone.

Her mind raced, desperately trying to recall every word of her poem, searching for any hint of resemblance to someone else's work. But all she could feel was the stabbing pain of betrayal and injustice. ‘I spent all night pouring my heart into that poem’. her heart rising with anger. ‘I bared my soul in those words, and now they're telling me it's not mine? This is totally unfair!’

'Wait, my bag, I haven't checked it since last night, perhaps i....'

Slowly, Lara wheeled her wheelchair closer to the side of the bed to reach for her bag.

"Lara, dear! Come here, dinner’s ready! Come now or the chicken will get cold!" her mom called.

"Yeah Mom, I'm on my way!"

Speaking of the contest," said Sammy Braun, Lara's dad, between his mouthfuls of rice.

"Have you submitted, dear? I'm sure you'll make it to the final round. I believe in you. Please forgive me, my dear! We’re in debt because of me. That I can’t be the best dad for you. So, when will the announcement coming out?"

Lara's heart sank as she heard her dad's question.

"I-I don't know yet, Dad. What is certain is that it will take some time. Because the contestants are not only hundreds of people, but all over Metropolia. No, Dad, it's not your fault. This all happened because of me. Because of my condition, you had to renovate the house and get into debt for my comfort and treatment. Please forgive me, Dad! I'll do my all, my best to pay all of our debts. Please, allow me take this responsibility." Lara spelled, full with determination.

‘Please forgive me, Dad! For now, I have to keep this matter secret from you.’ Lara’s heart whispered.