The Sway and Slide of Love by Jean Song

Chapter 32 Chapter 32

Chapter 32

Matilda asked why, huh? Teenage Noelle used to ponder about this when g

first reunited with her family.

Back then, she had tried to mimic every flattering gesture Sandra had used to win over her family. But what did that get her? Indifference..

Things became crystal clear one day when she prepared a cup of coffee for Matilda. She had thanked her for the effort, only to discard it into the flowerpot behind her back

That night, she overheard the conversation between her parents.

Matilda contemplated whether to take Noelle for an HIV test. At that time, she was too young to know what that was. It wasn't until later in life that she realized it was a test for AIDS.

sexually assaulted by her adoptive father. To her

was no longer pure to them, and she had lost the right to be their

shut her eyes tightly. When she opened them again, her gaze displayed nothing but calmness. "It doesn't matter anymore. I don't need your

"What does that mean?"

you'll finally be free of that feeling" Noelle smiled. "Don't worry. I'll leave. From now on, Sandra will be

Matilda's voice rembled, unsure whether it was out

She simply smiled, saying, "Of course, I do. To be

in that village. At least that way, I could've indulged in the fantasy

but her trembling body

from her and gazed at Craig. "I've said what

She turned around decisively.

up at last. He came to stand before Noelle and chided her, "You're acting crazy! You're the daughter of the Swansons and share the same blood as us. Do you honestly think you can just leave like

Noelle questioned solemnly, her gaze so determined that it felt like she would realize

and he was

Noelle turned around again, her