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.

sorrow. So long as she stood beside Rita, everyone could tell who was the Russells' genuine daughter. Sadie found it unfair. Lineage seemed to dictate everything even though she could not choose who she was born to,

probably found amusement in everything. After all, it had taken Sadie years and years to attain what Rita had been born into, and Rita's indifference

lambasted. "I told you I had dibs on Sherman. Why

was baffled by Sadie's accusation; it seemed to

you're here to cause trouble, I suggest you leave now. Your

want Sherman all to yourself! Who were trying to deceive when you pretended not to

bitterly. She did not deny that Sherman hailed from a privileged background, which created an even bigger gap between them. Rita acknowledged that, but she