Chapter 146: Give and take

*Flashback continued*

Esme pushed herself to her feet, "Although I am no one to hold grudges over the matters of the past I won't say I don't feel upset over it. Aunt, you have done so much for me and I will always love you the most but now that things have come to this, everything is bittersweet. I have sweet memories in the Reis Family along with some scary ones but this left a bitter taste in my mouth. It's like a scar which will never fade..."

"Stop going around in circles. What you are trying to say is...?" Marlene interrupted her. 

"Let's not stay in touch after you leave. No matter what you talk about, it will always remind me of everything you told me today."

Marlene's eyes teared up, "Esme, don't do this. You know that my love for you has always been genuine even if it started only as a responsibility. I beg you. Nothing much, just let me know if you are doing well or if something is bothering you. Don't cut off ties with us..."