Chapter 96
Josh ended the call with his boss and best friend.
As Serenity and Liberty navigated their childhood, they faced deep-rooted challenges in their family dynamics. While some members of the community expressed sympathy for the sisters, few were willing to stand up to their formidable grandparents. Serenity’s grandmother, known for her fierce temper and sharp tongue, instilled fear in those around her, making it difficult for anyone to confront her behavior.
To add to their struggles, the sisters were forbidden from visiting their parents’ graves or accessing their parents’ will, all under the pretense of being too young. In a twist of fate, the grandparents took it upon themselves to name one of the sisters’ cousins as the adopted son of Serenity and Liberty’s deceased parents. This arrangement was clearly designed to benefit John, allowing him to inherit the house, land, and farm that rightfully belonged to Serenity’s parents.
Given these circumstances, Serenity and Liberty found little reason to return to their childhood home. Serenity recalled that John was indeed the cousin designated as the adopted son. Meanwhile, Zachary, a newcomer in the rural area, and many locals barely recognized Serenity since it had been so long since her last visit. This anonymity provided her with a unique opportunity to capture photographs of her uncles’ homes.
Years ago, the grandparents had taken their parents’ insurance money and distributed it among the uncles, who then used it to build new houses and launch businesses. This windfall had greatly enriched their lives, allowing them to live in solitary villas and enjoy a lifestyle that many in the community envied.
Now, standing at the gate of the house built by her parents, Serenity was engulfed by a wave of memories. The sight of her childhood home triggered a profound sense of loss, filling her heart with overwhelming sorrow. Tears welled in her eyes, glistening in the light, as she struggled to contain her emotions.
Zachary, observing her from a distance, sensed her distress. Understanding that she was going through an emotional upheaval, he felt a strong desire to reach out and offer her comfort, along with a shoulder to lean on.
Time went on.
An elderly woman was strolling by when she noticed Serenity.
Curious, she paused for a better look and exclaimed with delight, “Are you…”