Chapter 33: THIRTY-THREE

Everyone was at home when I got back, their faces lighting up as I walked through the door. They were thrilled when I told them I was returning. Although Mom wasn't exactly ecstatic—she mentioned she thought that since Wade and I had finally broken up, maybe Ivan could get a chance.

I knew she was just thinking about herself. After all, Ivan was accessible to ask for money from.

They all got up to welcome me the moment I entered. Karen seemed to have lost weight, probably from all the stress she had been under. Char, on the other hand, was as bubbly as ever. Mom was just there, hovering in the background.

"Welcome back, girl," Char said excitedly, giving me a big hug. I returned her hug, then turned to Karen, embracing her as well. I left Mom out, knowing she'd be offended but not caring. This time, I wasn't going to let her off easy.

"How was your journey?" Karen asked.