Chapter 5

I once thought home was a safe harbor.

But all the storms I’d weathered over the years were brought by this very home.

Parents usually wish their children well, but my biological parents were experts at rubbing salt in my wounds.

Though I already knew they disliked me, hearing those words, I couldn’t help but feel my eyes redden, a suffocating pain pressing down on me.

Seeing me silent, Serena quickly pulled Brenda away, but her words were directed at me:

“Scarlett, just say something. Mom’s just looking out for you. If he doesn’t know, you should tell him soon.”

I curled my lips, my voice laced with sarcasm: “Don’t compare him to you all. You don’t deserve it.”

As I spoke, my parents simultaneously yelled:

“What are you saying?”

“Say that again!”

At the same time, Julian’s voice echoed:

“What’s going on?”

Following the sound, I saw Julian standing at the stair landing, holding Lily’s hand.

Serena went up to him, naturally took Lily’s hand, and said to Julian:

“Julian, Scarlett is getting married.”

Julian’s voice was as indifferent as ever. “Oh, congratulations.”

Serena: “That’s what I said too, congratulations on finding true love. By the way, Scarlett, why didn’t you bring your boyfriend back today?”

“Dinner isn’t necessary, he’s very busy.”

I placed our wedding invitation on the coffee table. “Here’s our invitation. Whether you come or not is up to you.”

“And please, don’t call me back unless it’s really necessary.”

As I turned to leave, my eyes met Lily’s.

I paused.

She moved her lips, as if saying, “Mommy.”

I clenched my hand, and after tens of seconds of inner struggle, I expressionlessly shifted my gaze and walked away.