My Last And My Only

Chapter 80: What Was Left Behind

The small paper bag had been sitting on Amanda's desk for almost two weeks.

Every morning, she would glance at it before doing something else.

Every night, she would tell herself she'd bring it tomorrow.

Tomorrow had become another tomorrow.

Until Saturday.

She picked up the bag, checked its contents one last time, and smiled.

Inside was a worn-out paperback novel.

The cover had faded over the years, and several pages were held together with clear tape.

A tiny note was still tucked inside.

Property of Mikhaela Janna Lim.

Amanda laughed softly.

"I can't believe I still have this."

She had found it while unpacking one of the last boxes from the United States.

She remembered borrowing it before a long exam week.

Neither of them remembered it afterward.

Years had passed.

The book had crossed oceans with her.

Now...

It was finally going home.

She took a taxi instead of driving.

The address Khae had sent months ago was saved in her phone, though Amanda had never used it.

As the taxi turned into a quiet subdivision, Amanda looked out the window.

Everything was unfamiliar.

She had been to Khae's house countless times growing up.

Just...

Not this one.

"This is it, Ma'am."

Amanda paid the driver and stepped out.

For a moment, she simply stood outside the gate.

It was a beautiful house.

Modern.

Bright.

Well cared for.

Nothing like the one she remembered.

She smiled sadly.

"I guess this is what growing up looks like."

She pressed the doorbell.

A woman she had never met opened the gate.

"Good afternoon."

Amanda smiled politely.

"Good afternoon."

"I'm looking for Khae."

The woman returned the smile.

"May I know who's looking for her?"

"I'm Amanda."

The woman nodded.

"Please come in."

"I'm Janice."

Amanda stepped inside.

"Nice to meet you."

"You too."

Janice led her into the living room.