Ago

Annie’s heart twinged hearing that familiar voice. Back in her past life, she and her folks weren’t exactly chummy. She’d been away for the first eighteen years, and even upon her return, their connection felt more like strangers passing by. This was her first time taking the first step to contact them.

Thinking about their fate in the previous life, Annie gave her thigh a little pinch to steady her nerves. She took a deep breath and grinned widely Mom, I miss you guys.

Winnie Sanders blinked in surprise, her eyes glistening with tears, but a smile dancing on her lips. “Annie, we miss you too. Your dad carries your photo in his wallet and gazes at it every day.”

Annie knew about that. The photo was taken when she was seven or eight, still looking like a little country girl. When she accidentally stumbled upon it, she had a big argument with her dad, feeling it was her embarrassing past. She even angrily cut it with scissors. Later, she learned that he felt guilty about missing out on her childhood, so he went to great lengths to find the photo from those days and treasured it dearly

Hoodwinked by the seemingly “genuine” actions of the other Sanders kin, Annie had at times questioned her own parents‘ sincerity, brushing it off as a guilty conscience seeking redemption. It all seemed ridiculous. Now, she knew clearly who truly mattered and vowed to protect them. She held back her tears and asked, “And Dad?”

Winnie responded tenderly, “He’s off on a work check–up. There’s a project that he insists on overseeing personally before he’s at peace.

“And Philip?” Annie continued.

“Ta–da!” Her brother Philip appeared on the screen, a radiant grin lighting up his handsome face. “Thought you’d forgotten about me.”

Annie couldn’t help but chuckle. “Forget you? Never. How’s the studying grind treating you?”

Philip spoke confidently, “Got a bunch of exams on the horizon. Nail those, and it’s the waiting game for results.”

Annie gave a fist pump. “You’ve got this!”

“Don’t worry. I’m on it. Once I finish these exams, Dad’s work will also be wrapping up soon, and then we can all return the country.” Philip sounded ecstatic.

“Sounds good.” Annie beamed.

They chatted for over an hour, reluctant to end the video call. Before hanging up, Winnie expressed her concern. “Annie, we’re not there with you. Take care of yourself, okay?”

“Don’t worry, Mom,” Annie reassured with a raised eyebrow. I’ll be fine. Any troubles will be on their side.

12

Charak

In the afternoon. Annie settled down to watch TV while munching on popcorn, waiting for her plan

Annie, looks like you’re having a good time,” said Yolanda, wearing a deep blue LK handbag. She plopped beside Annie nonchalantly, as it they hadn’t been at odds that morning

Aue sae Yolanda’s flashy handbag and immediately caught on to her target–the 100 thousand dollars Amanda had given Annie this morning. Sensing the unspoken message, Annie decided to play along. Another new bag. Yolanda?”

“Yeah, it’s the latest summer limited edition from LK. Got lucky with a friend connected to the brand supplier, Yolanda replied.

Annie nodded, “That’s some good fortune.

Yolanda sighed. “The color and style of this bag are too selective. It doesn’t suit me well. Why don’t you try it and see if it fits

Wouldn’t it be improper? After all, you just managed to get it.” Annie hesitated.

“Ah, no need for formality. If you like it, consider it yours.” Yolanda offered.

Annie picked up the bag, grinning, “Great, I really liked this bag. I noticed it when it was first released. Since you’re gifting it, I won’t hold back then.”

Yolanda’s smile froze.

Annie couldn’t help but scott inwardly. Again, huh? She even didn’t bother changing the excuse. Did she think I was still naive? Expecting me to insist on buying it with gratitude, only to end up paying more for a fake with a phony discount?”

“Annie, this LK bag is a limited edition, and I went through a lot to get it, Yolanda stressed each word with a strained tone.

Annie tilted her head, a sly smile playing on her lips. “I understand, but Yolanda, were gifting it to me. right? You’re not changing your mind now, are you?”

you did

say you

B