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.

adoptive father. To her parents,

happened, she was no longer pure to them, and she had lost

Noelle shut her eyes tightly. When she opened them again, her

"What does that mean?"

finally be free of that feeling" Noelle smiled. "Don't worry. I'll leave. From now on, Sandra will be your one and only daughter-the

saying?" Matilda's voice rembled, unsure

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

least that way, I

her

her and gazed at Craig. "I've said what I needed to say. Now... take

She turned around decisively.

acting crazy! You're the daughter of the Swansons and share the same blood as

to you?" Noelle questioned

Craig's throat, and he

turned around again, her footsteps resolute and steadfast