The client terminated our partnership on the spot. The company lost tens of millions. I lost my job.
When I confronted her, she didn't even flinch.
"This is my brother's house. Why can't I go wherever I want? You think you can boss me around? I don't let anyone get away with that."
My husband made her apologize. For his sake, I let it go. When she offered to cook for me, I reminded her to turn off the gas when she was done—otherwise it could be dangerous.
She got me drunk. Then she turned on the gas valve and locked me in the kitchen.
"Trying to tell me what to do? I don't let anyone get away with that."
I suffocated to death on that kitchen floor.
When I opened my eyes again, it was the Lantern Festival.
——
"Queenie, dinner's ready! Come eat!"
That voice. I knew that voice.
The realization hit me like ice water—I had been reborn.
Corinne Swanson stood at the door, calling me with that same sweet persistence.
Before I could gather my thoughts, my husband Calvin Swanson nudged my arm.
"Queenie, Corinne's talking to you. Are you deaf?"
I found my voice quickly.
"I have a cold and fever. I'm not eating."
The next second, Corinne pushed the door open and walked in, a box of antibiotics in her hand.