I ended up in a dimly lit bar, nursing a drink. In the Hayes household, I’d heard “Mrs.
Hayes, you can’t do that!” countless times.
My identity represented the Hayes family, Harrison.
The past twenty–five years revolved around the Hayes family, around Harrison.
And in the end, I was the Hayes family’s Mrs. Hayes in name only.
Listening to the singer’s love song, I drank one glass after another.
Before I passed out, I heard a gentle voice ask:
“Miss, are you alright?”
I tried to speak, but I lost consciousness.
Join the bookshelf
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When I woke up, I rubbed my temples; a
throbbing headache made it hard to focus. “You’re awake!”
A pleasant voice came from the doorway. Looking up, I saw the singer from the bar. “I’m so sorry, I caused you trouble last night,” I mumbled, ashamed.
She smiled brightly. “It’s okay, meeting you
feels like fate.”
“I’m Lucy. What’s your name?”
I stared at her bright smile and replied, “Claire.”
“Claire, I made porridge. Go wash up and come eat.”
I didn’t react. Lucy pulled me from the bed and pushed me towards the bathroom. “Toothbrush and towel are brand.
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up, I’m starving!” She winked, implying she’d
wash me if I didn’t hurry.
After washing up, she pulled me to the table. “Claire, eat! After breakfast, we’ll go hiking!” Looking at her youthful energy, I realized I was only 25.
At the Hayes house, I always had to act calm, dignified as Mrs. Hayes. So I seemed much
older than I was.
I wanted to be her friend!
A strong urge I’d never felt before.
I hesitated then spoke carefully. “Lucy, can I
stay here for a while?
I’ll pay rent!”
Lucy agreed without a second thought. “Aren’t you scared I’m a bad person?” I asked, surprised by her immediate
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