"What? You choose to keep the child instead? You're insane Y/n!" Shouted Aiko, a friend back when I still lived in my village in the countryside.
As soon as Satoru broke up with me, I had no choice but to go back here, with expectations that my family would at least help me. I didn't want to abort my child, especially not when they didn't do any wrong.
"Yes," I replied to Aiko tiredly.
Who could have expected, though, that they would completely turn their backs on me? Saying that I was a complete shame to the family.
Atleast only Mother and Auntie Ko who actually show a sense of pity to me, the only one who didn't turn their back on me.
All the other villagers were advising their daughters not to be like me, who suddenly returned home pregnant.
Yes, the fault here is really me.
Feeling completely lost, I looked down at the ground. At least Aiko put her hand on my shoulder, comforting me. Aiko herself was the daughter of a twisted family, where a grandfather had impregnated his own granddaughter. It was truly disgusting. I felt awful for her.
But at the same time, two people who had both been discarded and put aside by society finding solace in one another wasn't exactly a cause for celebration.
I glance at her, surprised by how healthy Aiko looks despite her unfortunate upbringing. I can't fathom how she's still able to maintain her sanity when her mother is now confined to a mental hospital, overwhelmed by her own trauma.
I glance away and let out a heavy sigh, reminding myself to be grateful that I still have my mom and Auntie Ko on my side. However, I know that I can't stay in this village any longer, not with the constant gossip and negative chatter directed my way.
"Aiko, I think it's best if I leave this village tomorrow," I say, standing up. "Thank you for your support. I'll go prepare for my leave."
Aiko looks at me sadly and shakes her head. "I understand, but please be careful out there. Here's some money to help you along the way. It'll only cover you for a week, but I hope it'll be a little something to get you started." She hands me a wad of bills. "Take care of yourself, Y/n."
I stiffen a bit, hesitating to take the money as I notice the thick cover paper, which hints at a substantial amount of money. "Where did you get all this money?" I exclaim, worried that she may have stolen it or done something else unsavory.
Aiko holds out the money and explains, "Relax, it's from my father. He said he's grateful to you for always being a friend to me, his daughter. He even sent you a personal letter." Aiko's expression softens slightly, indicating that she's glad she could help me.
