My voice shook. "Then why did they come back for me? Why would they—"
"Guilt."
Cynthia's laugh turned mocking. "The richer people get, the more they fear karma. Understand?"
"Or maybe it's just pity."
I had no response.
"Keep the phone. Make sure to check the photos on the messaging app. See how much fun we're having."
She hung up.
I staggered backward and collapsed onto the floor. Everything inside me threatened to explode. I wanted to scream.
Instead, I bit down on my lip until I tasted blood, forcing it all back down.
Eventually, I dragged myself to my feet.
Without them—
I could survive on my own.
Sure, I was a little slow as a kid—but that wasn't my fault!
I worked hard to overcome it. I earned my way into an elite university with outstanding grades. I was leagues ahead of Cynthia.
Like every other child at the orphanage, I was one of Grandma's perfect kids.
After packing my things, I trudged through the wind and snow to the now-empty orphanage and lined up a few part-time jobs to prepare for college life.
As for tuition—my grades had earned me a full scholarship.
I'd wanted to test my parents. They didn't have to give me a single cent. All I needed was some sign that they loved me.