My mother stepped forward, smoothing her expensive coat like she was calming herself, not me. “Miya, sweetheart… you and Gusion haven’t been close for a long time. We thought this was the healthiest outcome.”
“The healthiest outcome?” My voice cracked. “You mean lying to me? Letting her sleep with my husband? Standing here clapping while he replaces me?”
Gusion cut in, clearly tired. “Miya, stop. This isn’t helping anyone. You’re exhausting yourself.”
Exhausting.
I wanted to scream.
“This is my daughter’s birthday,” I said, louder now. “You didn’t even call her this morning. You told me you were busy. And now you’re here proposing to my parents’ adopted daughter like I don’t exist.”
Hanabi stepped closer, eyes glossy, voice soft in that fake way she perfected. “Miya, please don’t look at me like that. I never meant for you to find out like this.”
She reached for my hand.
I pulled away instantly. “Don’t touch me.”
Her face hardened. “Why are you acting like this?” she snapped. “I didn’t steal him. You barely noticed him anymore. You were always tired, always sick, always gone. What was he supposed to do? Sit around and wait?”