I decided to hold off on dinner for now and enjoy the snacks that Alice had brought later. Wanting to confide in someone I could trust, I decided to share what happened earlier in the day with Alice.

We sat in my room, watching documentaries on my laptop while savoring the delicious snacks. The taste was simple yet infused with a delightful hint of smokiness, sweetness, and saltiness that I absolutely loved.

"What do you have to tell me? You know I love good gossip," she said with excitement.

"Well, earlier this morning, I was at the market when I sensed someone following me. And I was right, three guys...