Chapter 8

It was difficult at first, sure. I insisted on going to school, surviving off some meager social benefits and my part-time salary.

I put everything into securing my future, and I knew that education was my only way out of poverty.

I also knew that it was not my fault my parents treated me like that. The fault was all theirs.

Things got better once I went to college. I met Shaun and Vicky, my lover and my friend.

I was satisfied with my life. Now, I had a child on the way too. My future was looking brighter every day.

Still, why was there such a difference between my sister and me? Why did my parents have another daughter to begin with?

I did not know what to do, so I instinctively looked to Shaun for help.

He patted my back comfortingly, lowering his head to meet my gaze. I could see how much his heart ached for me. “Nessie…”

I wiped my tears and turned to Joanne. “I understand everything now. Please don’t visit me ever again.”

She pleaded, “But why, Nessa ?!”

I stood up, ho