章)The streets were slick with rain.
Maplewood had been drenched for the entire day.
Lily stood at the entrance of her childhood home, her backpack unceremoniously tossed out by the butler.
“Miss Anderson, Mr. Carter doesn’t want to see you anymore. Your real parents are in the countryside, and the Carters have finally recognized their true daughter. It’s best for you to leave and not contact us again,” the butler said, his tone indifferent.
He handed her a card. “This is a thousand dollars, a parting gift from Mr. Carter.”
“No thanks,” Lily replied, not even glancing at the money as she picked up her black backpack.
The butler looked at her with disdain. “You really think you can just walk away? The Carters have their real daughter now. You’re nothing but a burden.”
“Then I’ll be on my way,” Lily said, her back straight as she walked away from the house that had once been her home.
She left with nothing but her backpack, her heart heavy but determined. The rain continued to pour, soaking her clothes and making her feel even more alone.
As she walked, she could hear the whispers of the townspeople behind her.
“Finally, she’s gone.”
“Who needs her? She was never one of us.”
Lily felt a surge of anger but pushed it down. She wouldn’t let their words affect her. She was stronger than that.
With each step, she reminded herself that she was not the weak girl they thought she was. She had a plan, and she would make a life for herself.
After a long walk, she arrived at a small apartment complex on the outskirts of town. It was modest, but it would be a place to start anew.
Inside, she found a small room with just enough space for a bed and a desk. It wasn’t much, but it was hers.
Lily took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She had to focus on her goals. She needed to find a job and support herself.
As she unpacked her belongings, her mind wandered to Jake, her childhood friend. He had always been there for her, and she hoped he would understand her situation.
Just then, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Jake.
“Hey, Lily! Are you okay? I heard what happened.”
Lily’s heart warmed at his concern. “I’m fine. Just trying to figure things out.”
“Let me know if you need anything. I’m here for you,” he replied.
Lily smiled, feeling a sense of comfort. She knew she could count on Jake, no matter what.
As night fell, she sat on her bed, staring at the ceiling, contemplating her next move. She was determined to prove everyone wrong and make a life for herself, no matter the challenges ahead.
With a newfound sense of purpose, Lily closed her eyes, ready to face whatever came next.