Chapter 25

“Us”

She grunted softly, applying another layer of powder under her eyes, but it was still obvious how exhausted she was and how her dark circles were evident. She breathes out calmly, trying not to break down for the incalculable time that day. Tonight was a big night—it was her father’s forty-fifth birthday, and she needed to look presentable for the guests that were already out there in the backyard having fun. 

She exhaled again, smoothening her dress and taking a look at herself one last time before stepping out of her room. 

It was time to plaster that fake smile. 

She walked to the back door through the kitchen and stepped out. The backyard was more crowded than she expected it to be. She looked around, searching for her friends. She spotted them by the food stall, having a drink and laughing about something. 

She squeezed through the crowd as she smiled and exchanged pleasantries. Several elegantly-dressed guests were already milling around, eac