I thought I had kept my feelings well-hidden, but Natalie was always the first to notice whenever I was in a bad mood.

“This is about your family, isn’t it? I bet you gave in again, didn’t you?”

 

Natalie was so smart that she figured it out without me saying anything. After all, my family matters were the only things capable of stressing me out.

Seeing as she had already guessed it, I decided to not keep it from her and said helplessly, “Nat, I know it’s best if I just ignore it, but… they’re my family, and I can’t bring myself to be so heartless toward them. My parents would be so upset if anything happened to Steven.”

I sometimes hated myself for being so soft-hearted as Steven probably wouldn’t have turned out like this if I stood firm back then.

 

Natalie gave me a pitiful look and grumbled, “Your parents are taking advantage of your filial piety. That’s why they always count on you to solve every little problem. Honestly, I don’t understand them at all! You’re both their children, yet they treat you and your brother so differently. Is it really just because of your genders?”

“You know how it is, Nat. Patriarchy is a very serious problem in the village, and every family there practices it. If my brother would just get himself a proper job and work hard like he’s supposed to, I wouldn’t have to work my butt off like this!” I said with a helpless sigh.

Although I had gotten used to the patriarchal ways of my parents, Steven gambling away all the money I sent them took a huge toll on me over the past few years.

 

his gambling debts. It wasn’t that bad when he first started out, so I was still able to afford them. However, his

for you, Anna. I really want to help you out, but… Well, you know how much a regular office worker makes, right?” Natalie said

 

about lending me a hand, but Steven

a lot over the years we’ve known each other

I found myself in trouble, so

for the remaining amount… Well, I’m sure we’ll

your savings. I

a lot of money left for herself, and I couldn’t possibly pay her back anytime soon

right, then. Just let me know if

chose to respect my decision and not force the

saw Yuval’s car parked outside my

last contacted me, so I was quite surprised

the door for me

car, I couldn’t help but wonder if he had come to

driver’s seat, and the atmosphere felt a little tense as I wasn’t sure of his

at him and asked, “Um… So, why did you

the time. I’m sorry I haven’t had the time to contact you. I hope you’re not mad at me,” Yuval replied, his tone as

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