Seeing me, my mother immediately stood up, her eyes red. I hugged her tightly, feeling her body tremble slightly and my heart twisted with pain and sorrow.
I thanked the staff repeatedly and then helped my mom into the car. After fastening her seatbelt, I looked at her drained and frightened face. All my anger melted into heartache and guilt.
My voice trembled a little. “Mom, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have let him bring you along…”
“It’s not your fault, honey.”
Mom quickly waved her hand, comforting me instead. “It's me. I'm getting old and slow on my feet. I made them miss the fireworks show…”
“Don't fight with Liam because of me, okay? Just bear with it and it’ll pass. Life must go on..."
Looking at how my mom still cared for me despite such deep hurt, my anger roared again.
Just bear with it and it would pass? This matter would never just pass. They must pay for what they did today.
By the time we reached the hotel parking lot near the scenic area, the sky was already dark.
My mom didn't speak much throughout the journey and now she was even more awkwardly tidying up her clothes.
“Anne, later... please, don't argue with Liam. Just talk calmly, okay?”