The most painful thing in life might be achieving success, only to realize that the one person you wanted to repay the most didn’t live to see the day and left too soon.
Every time Zoe spoke of her sister, her eyes filled with tears. Charlie’s passing had left her with an endless ache of regret and sorrow.
But while Charlie was gone, she had left behind a daughter.
“When I was young, our parents favored boys over girls. They only sent my useless brother to school and refused to let me study. I fought back determined to continue my education, so they cut off my living expenses and refused to pay my tuition, hoping I’d give up,” Zoe said, her voice thick with emotion.
“During that time, it was your mom who secretly worked multiple jobs to scrape together enough money for me. To me, Charlie wasn’t just my sister–she was like a mother. She raised me when our parents wouldn’t lift a finger.
“That’s why, Mia, you should never feel like an outsider. I don’t have children of my own, from now on, you are my child. This is your home. Whatever you need, just say the word. Hosting an art exhibition? If you wanted the stars in the sky, I’d figure out a way to bring them to you.”
50
Zoe’s words wrapped Mia, who had been starved of love for so long, in a rare and comforting
warmth.
Zoe had left her oppressive hometown behind and boldly started a new life. Inspired by her aunt, Mia resolved to follow in her footsteps–to grow stronger, more confident, and face her new life with determination.
“Aunt Zoe, I want to host an art exhibition.” Mia met her aunt’s gaze, her eyes shining with a newfound resolve. “But I can’t let you and Uncle Tom pay for it. I’m an adult now, and even though we’re family, I’d feel guilty leaning on you for this.
“Let’s consider it a loan. Once the exhibition is over and I’ve sold my work, I’ll pay you back.”
Zoe smiled with pride. “Now that’s my niece!”
