I narrowed my eyes. “Mom, even though it’s the holidays, I still have to work from home sometimes.”
“What on earth are you so busy with all the time? She’s from out of town, and you, as a relative, can’t even take care of her properly? You’re not married off yet, but you’re already acting like you don’t care about your family! No wonder you’re nothing compared to your brother!” my mom snapped.
Her words chilled me to the bone.
From a young age, I knew my parents favored my brother. Everything in the house belonged to him, and I didn’t even have my own room – I slept in the living room.
I was frustrated and did my best to be a dutiful daughter, hoping to earn their love.
But they always preferred my brother. In my previous life, they didn’t even seek justice for my murder, choosing instead to use the settlement money to buy my brother a house.
Over time, my heart grew cold. Now, in this new life, I let go of any desire for their affection.
“Okay, Mom. I get it,” I said as I put down my teacup.
Teresa gave a shy smile. “Mrs. Hardy, no need to be so serious! We’re all family. I’ll just hang out with Amy occasionally – I won’t bother her work.”
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