Chapter 2008

Christopher, eyes red, said, "Mom, when I'm better, I'll work. Even if it's carrying cement, I'll do anything to support the family. I won't let Dad work at his age!"

Harold mumbled, "Grandma, I'll help."

Lady Wilson nodded. "You two focus on recovering. When you're well, I'll rely on you for my final rest."

After the Wilsons finally ate a full meal, Hannah cried herself to sleep in her room. Hungry and cold, she despaired of the family and decided to leave. She wouldn't stay with them or in Aurouss Hill. She wanted to return home. Her family didn't have much money, and her brother was a burden, but at least they could feed her. It was better than her current downward spiral.

However, her mother's home was far away—a five-to-six-hour train ride costing over a hundred dollars. She decided to get money from Lady Wilson.

That night, Lady Wilson slept soundly after a long day of work. Early the next morning, Hannah snuck into her room and took two hundred dollars from her pocket. One hundred was Lady Wilson's salary; the other hundred was a repayment for a slap. Hannah was thrilled. Two hundred wasn't much, but it was enough for breakfast and the train fare home for New Year's Eve.

Without hesitation, she pocketed the money, packed a few clothes, and left Thompson First before dawn. She left a note saying only, "See you later."

On the morning of New Year's Eve, Claire Wilson had started her vacation. Used to rising early, she was already up and washing by seven o'clock. Charlie Wade, seeing his wife awake, also got up. It was New Year's Eve; they had much to do—prepare dinner, make the dumpling filling, and watch the Spring Festival Gala while wrapping dumplings afterward.

Just then, Claire's phone rang. "Oh my," she said, surprised. "Loreen's calling so early. I wonder what's up."

Charlie smiled. "You'll find out, honey."

Claire answered. "Hey, Loreen, why are you calling so early?"

Loreen laughed. "I'm on vacation! My flight back to Eastcliff for New Year's Eve dinner is this afternoon." She continued, "Are you free later? I'd like to visit you and your family."

Claire smiled. "Of course, but please don't bring anything. I haven't even gotten gifts for your family, so let's skip the formalities."

"Okay!" Loreen said. "Just a friendly visit." She added, "By the way, Claire, my cousin's coming with me. Is that alright?"