Chapter 7
I spent the summer living in a rented apartment, focusing on my studies.
During that time, I went home once, but the house was empty.
I called my mom, but she didn’t answer.
I didn’t try again. I returned to my rental after grabbing my study materials.
As soon as I sat down, I received a message from Bella.
It was several photos of her family vacationing together. In the pictures, they looked happy, a perfect family of four.
Along with the photos, Bella sent a few lines.
[Look, Mom and Dad took me on a summer vacation. They didn’t even think of you. What does it matter that you’re their biological daughter? You’re still alone, sulking in a corner where no one cares.]
I looked at Bella’s possessive message and laughed.
It was so unnecessary. I didn’t care, not even a bit jealous.
I didn’t reply to her. Instead, I opened Instagram, liked the vacation photos my parents had posted, and commented,
Chapter 7
wishing them a great trip.
As soon as I posted, my mom called.
2/3
She said, “Zoc, Bella did well on her exams this time, and your dad and I promised her a trip. Since you’re busy studying, we didn’t want to disturb you.”
She preempted any complaint I might have had. If I showed any discontent, she would call me immature.
So, I replied, “It’s okay. I really need to study. Have a great trip.”
We chatted briefly before she hung up. I looked at my phone and scoffed.
My already cold heart grew a little colder.
Fortunately, I hadn’t expected anything.
For the rest of high school, I threw myself into my studies, methodically and steadily.
My grades improved, and so did my ranking.
became more confident and got along well with my classmates.
After the SAT, I estimated my scores and knew I would get the results I wanted.
I let out a small sigh of relief. I was one step closer to leaving this family behind.
Chapter 7
Ironically, this was also the day I died in a car accident in my past life.
But I believed I was on a different path now, one filled with hope.
Just as I was daydreaming about the future, my mom called.
3/3
“Zoe, how have you been? We’re planning to send Bella abroad for her studies. What are your plans?”
In my past life, I had received the same question. Back then, I was naive and foolish, not realizing that her inquiry was just a formality, not a genuine offer to send me abroad.
After months of being ignored by the family and constantly clashing with Bella, this call had made me think I was finally regaining their love.
Write your comment
