𝕻𝖗𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙

Phase 4: Abnormal

[Narrator]

"Creek!", the sound of Rachel's door as she opened it. Her grip on the doorknob was full of sadness she received during dinner a while ago.

"What else are they hiding from me?"  this was the million-dollar for her. She still can't get that off her head.

Her temples ached a little from overthinking so much. So, she decided to take a warm bath and nap for a long, long time, hoping this day would come to an end, in a flick of a second. She then dressed into her favorite pajamas, which were cotton made, printed with cartoon-like bears that looked snuggly and fuzzy. She thought that would at least cheer her up.

Before snoozing, Rachel decided to read a novel. It was one of her dearest picks of books to read. The book was titled "Flowers in the Attic"  by V.C Andrews. It was gifted by her grandfather. He told her to read it in a quiet and comforting area. Well, her bedroom was the only place for her to be herself. The book was covered with love, heartbreak, sincerity, and sacrifice. She was reading the ending when she heard footsteps outside her room. She was expecting her dad to bring some of the leftover lasagnas.

"May I come in, sweetie?" spoke Mrs. Woods.

Rachel was a little shocked, but she decided to ignore her mum in just about 10 seconds.

"Rachel?"

"Mum, you shouldn't be here. You were supposed to be in bed by 9."

"I just wanted to check on you. I know exactly how you feel."

"NO YOU DON'T! I felt betrayed for some reason", well, she knew she was going to at least release some tears from her eyes. Her brothers' incident was still playing on her delicate head as her mum spoke.

"Oh sweetheart, I didn't know you felt that much agony. I was hoping you would understand since you're so mature right now. I'm really sorry", Mrs. Woods was halfway sobbing, trying not to cry.

"Mum, you don't have to apologize. You didn't do anything wrong. You just told me something I didn't know. Moreover, you kept it for the past 17 years. I can understand the pain you've been through. I don't want you to have more problems than before. Instead, I want you to live your fullest. I'll try my best to keep this family happy. Forever."

"Aww Rae, thank you for understanding. You've been such an angel to my life. You were there for me, even though you're having a hard time. Thank you for everything."

They both hugged. The hug was warm and cozy. She thought this day would have ended with a twinge, but Rachel guessed she can't predict the future after all.

"I love you, Mum."

"I love you too, sweetheart."

They both slightly released the hug, feeling sleepy.

"Mum, have you taken your medicines?" said Rachel, as she yawned.

"Oh um, yes?"

"Mum! Don't lie to me. Get going now. It's 10 already."

"Alright, alright. I'll eat my medicines and sleep. Happy?"

"Very. Goodnight."

"Goodnight sweetheart."

Her mum gave a quick kiss on her cheek. Her mother's love for her was the only thing that brought her joy at that very moment.

Mrs. Woods closed the door, oddly. Her face was lacking brightness, even though her daughter excepted her apology. She wanted to pour out something bigger, but she kept it in her heart, hoping someday her courage would return, telling Rachel what was it.