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Liam blinked. Then his face twisted with scorn. "Done? Because I don't buy your delusions?"
His eyes radiated impatience. "I told you, stop this nonsense. Sophia—"
I cut him off. "You disgust me. Get out."
Those filthy photos? I wouldn't stoop to mention them.
Liam laughed coldly, deleting my number right there. "Bella Johnson, who do you think you are? Who'd want you after me?"
The cruel words barely registered. I sneered back, "Better than being with scum like you."
"You—"
Recognition dawned. His face paled. "You know?"
I lowered my eyes. Confirmation.
He gritted his teeth and left.
My family didn't love me. But I loved them.
That night, alone in the quiet hospital room, I wrote letters.
Dad, I know you're gruff but kind. But words hurt. Please try saying you care. And ease up on sweets, or your hospital visits will break my heart.
I knew Dad had severe diabetes and heart disease. I'd managed his diet. But Sophia, these three years, fed him sweets to win favor, worsening his condition.
Mom, you've never really rested. I thought I could finally care for you... but life had other plans. My savings are in your account. Please be well.
Ethan, we grew up together. Remember the scar on your palm protecting me? I found a special ointment overseas. It's in my desk. Use it.
The words poured out. The text box warned me: Character limit reached.
I sent the timed messages, gazing out the window. Dawn was breaking.
Tears I hadn't noticed soaked the sheet.
I stretched. It was time.
Sunrise painted the sky. I felt my connection to my body fraying.
I was disappearing.
Time crawled. Sunlight hit my face as my spirit finally left the shell.
The texts sent at that exact moment.
At home, phones chimed.
Ethan jolted awake, staring blankly.
Mom hadn't slept, a strange ache inside.
Dad slept fitfully, probably angered by me.
They saw the message from me.
Clicked it together.
Then, they froze. Tears fell unchecked.
Sophia awoke, triumphant.
She knew I couldn't handle the body, even gifted back. Her return proved it.
A small sacrifice after three years of playing servant to win my family.
She admired her new body.
The door opened. My family, fresh from receiving my messages, stood there.
