Chapter83
Once they were a safe distance away, Cindy looked at Ashley with concern.” Ashley…” Ashley shook her head, her voice flat. “I’m fine.”
From the moment Mark divorced her mother, he ceased to be her father in her mind. What truly pained her was the added burden on her uncle because of her, and the unfair favoritism shown to Tanya by Chase.
The thought of Chase’s undivided attention being focused solely on Tanya, of his ruthlessness owards Tim and her uncle all for Tanya’s sake, and his complete disregard for her feelings, felt like a knife twisting in her heart. A deep, agonizing pain.
“Ashley…” Cindy hugged her, her heart aching.
Ashley forced a smile, saying nothing. It was alright. She’d decided to move on. All she needed. was time. She could do it.
to unwind. to grab a “Want
drink?” Cindy suggested, sensing Ashley’s need Ashley shook her head.“No.” She craved the solace of her data more than alcohol. Immersed in her work, she could find peace, reconnect with herself, and relax.
Understanding, Cindy didn’t press further. As they headed for the parking lot, Ashley’s phone rang. It was Sam.
pause, she answered, “Hello?” The faint smile on
on Ashley’s face vanished. After a Sam’s voice was laced with childish whine.“Mommy, when are you coming home?” Ashley didn’t answer directly. “What’s wrong?”
“I’m so bored all alone. Mommy, please come home and keep me company.” With her dad away and Tanya busy, the house was quiet, and Sam was terribly lonely. She missed the days when her mother would chat with her, patiently listening to her talk about her favorite cartoons and figurines.
