Ch. 3: The Web Of Deceit.

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It was a idyllic summer afternoon in August 2004, and I was basking in the joy of a family vacation in the United Kingdom. Our canopy stood tall on the beach, a haven from the gentle sunshine that cast a warm glow over the shore. I was only five years old, but the memory of that day remains etched in my mind like a treasured gem.

As I played with my happy family, the cool breeze carried the sweet scent of saltwater and the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore. We had spent the day indulging in delicious foods, laughing, and making merry. But what made this day truly special was the anticipation of a new addition to our family. My mother, 2 months pregnant, glowed with a radiant smile as my father and I showered her with love and care, ensuring her safety and that of our soon-to-arrive little brother.

The excitement was palpable as we took pictures, sang songs, and danced around the beach, creating memories that would last a lifetime. I was overjoyed, unable to contain my eagerness to meet my new sibling. The happiness was infectious, and our laughter echoed through the evening as the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the shore.

As the day drew to a close, we reluctantly packed up our belongings, our hearts still aglow with the joy of the day. That summer afternoon on the beach remains a cherished memory, a reminder of the love and happiness that fills my heart. Even now, I can close my eyes and recall the sound of the waves, the smell of the ocean, and the warmth of my family's love.

As we settled into our cozy home that evening, we gathered around the warm glow of the tea cups, savoring the soothing taste of Lipton, my mother's beloved brew. The night sky unfolded above us, a canvas of twinkling stars and a radiant full moon, inviting us to make wishes. I closed my eyes, sending a heartfelt prayer for my mother's safe delivery and the arrival of my little brother. My father's wish, though puzzling at the time, left an indelible mark on my mind - he longed to see me enrolled in the finest university the universe had to offer, a promise he vowed to fulfill before his time on earth came to a close.

As we turned to my mother, pretending to slumber, we playfully coaxed her into revealing her heart's desire. With a serene smile, she gazed up at the starry expanse, whispering a wish for our happiness to be infinite. The moment was pure magic, filled with laughter and hope.

But the tranquility was short-lived, as my father's phone pierced the night air, summoning him to a conversation that would shatter the serenity. His expression darkened, and my mother followed him, leaving me to sense the ominous atmosphere. I trailed behind, entering a scene that would forever etch itself in my memory - my father's tears, a sight I had never witnessed before, his usual composure shattered.

My mother's attempts to reassure me, attributing his distress to a mere fever and a doctor's urgent call, couldn't dispel the unease that settled within me. As she guided me to my room, urging me to rest and avoid tardiness for school the next day, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss.

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As Aunt Faith departed, she complimented my mother on the young woman I had become, and they exchanged warm smiles and laughter. Once she was gone, my mother approached me, concern etched on her face. I retreated to my room, flopping onto my bed with a sigh.

My gaze drifted to the framed photo on the wall, where my father's arms cradled me in a warm embrace. Memories flooded my mind, and I felt a pang of sadness. My mother entered, closing the door gently behind her, and placed the Lipton tea on the table. She sat beside me, stroking my hair with tender affection.

"How long did you study today, dear? You must have been absorbed in your books to lose your appetite,"

She asked, her voice soft with concern. But I didn't answer. Instead, I turned to her, my eyes searching for answers.

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