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.

she was almost sexually assaulted by her adoptive father. To her parents,

truth revealed that nothing had happened, she was no longer pure to them, and

them again, her gaze displayed nothing

"What does that mean?"

regretted reuniting with me. Well, you'll 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 one you adore and take pride

Matilda's voice rembled, unsure whether it was out of anger or

"Of course, I do. To be frank, you guys aren't the only ones who regretted

that way, I could've indulged in the fantasy that my

stayed silent, but her trembling body

at Craig. "I've said what

She turned around decisively.

there!" Craig piped up at last. He came to stand before Noelle and chided her, "You're acting crazy! You're the daughter of the Swansons and

want me to do? Sell my soul and body to you?" Noelle questioned solemnly,

and he was

Noelle turned around again, her footsteps resolute