After her rebirth by Cici

Chapter 26

Katniss was straight-up bawling, feeling that warm, fuzzy family vibe only at Wesley's crib. She made up her mind to stop kissing up to her parents 'cause they treated her like trash. Katniss was like, "They didn't boot me out; I bounced on my own."

"Good on you for figuring it out. Those folks are bad news. They bullied you, and karma's gonna get them. You did the right thing by bailing," Saskia said, handing Katniss a cup of water.

The water slid down her throat, warming her up from the inside out.

That long-lost feeling of being wrapped in love hit her like a ton of bricks.

Daphne looked at her with a face full of heartache. She'd watched Katniss grow up, always so well-behaved. She said, "Saskia's right. In this house, no one's gonna let you suffer. If you need anything, just holler. Treat this place like your own home."

Who knew what Oliver and his clan were thinking? They treated her like an enemy, not their own daughter.

Even though Clara had been around for over a decade and was closer to them than Katniss, blood is thicker than water. Katniss was Elodie's real kid. How could they not cherish their own flesh and blood and instead favor an adopted daughter with shady motives?

Daphne remembered when Katniss first came back, she was tiny, weak, and super reserved.

At first, Katniss's mom, Elodie, was all about her, but later she started favoring Clara, thinking Katniss was too shy and not as outspoken as Clara. She'd often say stuff that put Katniss down.

that house, took her in and cared for her for years. When Aurora's health went downhill, she had to send Katniss

Katniss got kicked out again. Daphne's feelings were all over the

up a meal, tying on an apron. "You all chat, I'll

some fruit from the fridge, washed it, and put it in a bowl, handing it

let us know. No need to be shy," Daphne

a smile, "Thanks, Aunt

through her mind.

moment, Wesley's cooking

up?" Katniss asked, her

smile, "It's nothing, just

bit off? You're being way too chill about this!" Katniss frowned, her tone dripping with concern and a

it, I'll hit up the hospital for a check-up," Wesley reassured, but he was clearly

Katniss felt a wave of

out, to catch any issues early and avoid any tragedy. She also needed to brush up on her medical skills to keep Wesley safe. Daphne handed Katniss an orange, saying gently, "Katniss, you're so thoughtful. Don't worry, in a few days,

on the sweet fruit, feeling

opening came from the entrance. It was Daphne's mom, Anna Parker,

Micah, Katniss moved in today," Saskia happily