"Dad, I understand. I'll always stay with all of you. I don't want to return to that other family," Ana said tearfully, shaking her head.
Ana didn't know who her birth parents were or what they were like. She'd only overheard fragments—that her biological mother had switched her with Demi to give her a better life. From this, she deduced they had to be poor.
In her heart, she'd resolved that when she grew up and became successful, she'd reunite with and support them in their old age. But not now—not yet.
Satisfied, Stephen nodded and instructed Michelle, "Have Abigail bring some ice for Ana's cheek."
Michelle recognized that Stephen had finally calmed down and immediately called for Abigail.
…
After school ended the next day, Ana, who had been absent all day, stepped into the classroom and stopped by Demi's desk.
"Demi, my mother wants to see you," she whispered.
Ana's eyes were slightly red and swollen because she had cried all night. That was why she hadn't come to class.
"Get lost. Don't bother me," Demi replied coldly, without even looking up.
The other students glanced over curiously.
Ana bit her lip, then whispered, "Demi, I was wrong before. Can we try to get along from now on?"
Demi gave Ana a look that suggested she was insane. Then, she slung her backpack over her shoulder and walked out.
Charles spun his wheelchair after her.
"Your legs haven't recovered?" Demi asked, glancing at him.
"It'll take a while. It won't heal that fast," Charles replied.
"Go get it checked. They should be fine by now. My medicine works pretty well."
"Really? Does that mean I can finally learn Brotherhood of the Iron Palm?" Charles' eyes lit up as he looked at her in excitement.
"Yeah. You just need to remove the cast," Demi said.
"Great! I'll schedule an appointment with my doctor to get it checked," Charles replied cheerfully.
"Awesome! We want to learn too!" Charles' friends cheered excitedly.
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