27

R-18

“Are you okay now?” My gaze shifted from the glass window of the hotel we were in. It was evident from here how heavy the rain was. “Here, drink this.”

He handed me the coffee, still steaming hot. I could see the steam rising. I blew on it gently before taking a sip.

“Thank you, Boss. It’s embarrassing that you witnessed the family riot back there,” I chuckled slightly, but I felt like crying at any moment. My mother’s words from earlier were still ringing in my ears.

I was used to her harsh words, especially when she was angry, but this seemed different. It felt like she had been holding back for a long time, and now it all came pouring out. The weight of her words felt heavy on me.

“Don’t mention it, I already expected this would happen,” he said, causing me to furrow my brow and look at him. “What?” he seemed puzzled, “I look and listen, Samantha. I saw how your family treats you before this happened.”

“But they’re still my family, so I know it’s not true. It’s just my mother’