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Lucy once thought she had a loving family and a happy life. But after the divorce —she had nothing. It felt like there was nothing left for Lucy in this world. But then, everything changed when a car nearly hit her. That’s when she met a long-lost friend, and her life began to take a new turn.
As I looked at that family photo, the laughter seemed almost to echo in my mind, taunting me with what I’d lost.
Dusting off the photo, I took in the happiness on their faces—such easy, carefree smiles, all together and at peace.
I swallowed hard, feeling the sting of tears as I thought about Harry, my own son, who was lost to me now.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
He wouldn’t even answer my calls, and wouldn’t hear my side of the story. My cheating husband James had made sure of that, convincing him I was the one who left, that I had abandoned them.
“Lucy, is everything alright?” Miss Kinsley’s voice startled me, pulling me back to the reality of her spotless home.
“Oh—yes, Miss Kinsley,” I said, quickly wiping my eyes and forcing a small smile.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“I’m fine. Just a little… tired.”
She studied me with a gentle but firm look, her head tilting slightly as if weighing her words.
“Lucy, I know you’ve had a tough time lately,” she said softly, stepping closer. “But I think it’s time we had a talk.”
The words hit me like a stone. I felt my heart pound, knowing what might come next.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Please, Miss Kinsley,” I said, my voice almost breaking, “I’ll do better, I swear. I know I’ve been slow, but I’ll work faster, I’ll keep it cheerful. I promise.”
She looked at me, a sad sympathy in her eyes.
“It’s not just about speed, Lucy. I can see that you’re hurting, and I know you’re doing your best. But… my son notices these things, and I need someone who can bring a bit of lightness into the house, you understand?”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
I swallowed, my throat dry.
