The Day I Kissed An Older Man

Karen added, "And another thing-don't mention that I'm your mother if you end up in any trouble. You will face the consequences yourself." Sadie then slammed the door in anger as she left.

Karen settled onto the sofa and patted her chest to calm her emotions. Never had they exchanged such harsh words despite quarreling numerous times over the years. Hearing Sadie berate her for being unable to offer anything left her feeling genuinely disheartened.

Karen was aware that she had a disadvantaged background, but she did not let that put her down and strived relentlessly to elevate their status. Having the Russell surname was proof of her unyielding effort, and she regretted that Sadie was so blinded by love that the sacrifices Karen made over the years went unacknowledged simply because Sherman was all she could think of. Sadie seemed to have focused on what Karen had failed to provide, rather than what Karen had succeeded in securing for her.

Rita had not yet returned home, but Sadie had paid her an abrupt visit. Still in a petulant mood following her encounter with Sherman, Rita had no desire to return home or see her family at a time when she considered herself not of the right mind. Before she could even gather her thoughts, she was confronted by Sadie's imposing figure.

the sofa with her arms folded. Having just been discharged from the hospital, her complexion remained pale, and she resembled a fragile beauty. Sadie felt a pang of sorrow. So long as she stood beside Rita, everyone could tell who was the Russells'

attain what Rita had been born into, and Rita's indifference toward the entire thing

on Sherman. Why

accusation; it seemed to imply that Rita was in

cause trouble, I suggest you leave now. Your presence

Who were trying to deceive when you pretended not to care at the dinner party? And

which created an even bigger gap between them. Rita acknowledged that, but she never doubted that