“Lily, are you sure you’re okay with this?” My mother’s voice was soft, but it carried a weight of worry that settled deep in my chest. I looked up from where I was tying my hair back, and met her eyes kind, tired, and lined with years of trying to protect me in a world that seemed determined to make life hard. Her face was wrinkled, her hands rough from years of work, but whenever she looked at me, there was always a warmth that made even the darkest days feel a little lighter. I gave her a small, reassuring smile, even though my stomach felt tight. “I’m fine, Mom. It’s just cleaning. I’ve done it a hundred times before.” She reached out and brushed a stray strand of hair from my face, her touch gentle. “I know, but… you know how some people are. They don’t see you as one of them, no matter how long you’ve been here.” I nodded, because it was the truth. I had been adopted by them when I was just a tiny baby, left on the steps of their small cottage with nothing but a blanket and a
Read more