Chapter 21 - Chapter 20

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((( ZHIO )))

"Looks like we need to do some cleansing about the rumors spreading around. I trust you Wenziel to do something about it," I smiled at Wenziel who was surprised to hear that from me.  

"Of course."

Deo, as he knew I would ask for, gave me the car keys. Seeing that my men stood still, Wenziel grew worried that I am planning to leave alone. The sun was still out and indeed it was more dangerous. Eyes were watching.  

"That's a bad idea Zhio," Wenziel stammered as I got in the car.

He just stood there dazed as I sped off. Chairman Do was right. I am in fact, stubborn.

But one thing's for sure. These wheels are taking me to the right place again.

(CLAIRE)

"Clarita!" stepmom called me in the mock name I was usually referred to by everyone when they are annoyed or angry. Her fat body stood menacing before me.

"Where did the money in your father's purse go? There were still some cash there yesterday!"

"Ma, I bought some medicine for Pa," I as I continued on brushing my teeth.  

She suddenly hit me with the broom she was holding.

Ouch! It hurt.

"Who told you to use that money? It's mine. Give it back!" she ranted "And it was your payday yesterday, give me some cash."

"I ran out of money already and the rest were for…" Slip of the tongue!

"For what?!"

"I'm saving it for dad's therapy sessions," I whined.

Her face wrinkled.

"Give it to me! Your father will heal on his own without those useless therapies. Hand it over!"

She might just hit me again so I reluctantly agreed. I didn't tell anybody that my pay increased by 50 pesos but all that I have saved so far still went to waste. Ma will just use them for gambling. I took the notebook where I hid my money and she took them instantly.

Little Lilibeth, who just woke up from sleep, approached me groggily.

"What's there to eat, Auntie Claire?"

"Nothing..." I replied passively, still annoyed at the loss of my savings.

"What? Auntie, go buy something!!!" She nagged with her high-pitched voice.

You spoiled little brat! She got the guts to yell at me!

"Well I'm not your mother. Go ask your mom to feed you," I replied with my brows raised.

"Mom! Aunt Clarita is scolding me," Lilibeth screamed again, snot running down her nose as she cried.

Nadine angrily strode out of the room as she tied her hair in a messy bun. She briefly glanced irritated at Lilibeth who has dirtied her clothes yet again then glared at me.  

"Clarita!" she challenged.

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