When the fake daughter completed college, her parents brought her to a graduation celebration.
They ran into me, who was operating a little street stall.
I wore an apron, calling in buyers, while the fake daughter trailed behind her parents in a designer long dress.
Seeing the dirt still on my face, my parents eyes showed soft regret.
Well buy all the flowers.
I waved my hand. Just choose a few; otherwise, you wont be able to take care of them.
Mom got tense. Were trying to take care of your business!
Really, no need. Some of these are reserved by customers.
Dad sighed. Youre still holding it against us.
I stopped.
Back then, we really thought it was best for you, not that we liked her more
A few customers got the wrong idea.
I smiled. I truly didnt mean anything.
From the moment I let go of wanting their love, my life had risen on its own.

Hattie, quit fussing. Pack them up.
Dad pointed at every flower.
Theres honestly no need; you dont require this many, its just wasteful.
This isnt something you need to handle.
Mom cut me off. Brielle just got into flower crafting lately, so well buy them for her to practice.
Even so, this is far too much for her.
I pressed down Moms hand as she reached for the flowers.
Brielles eyes grew slightly wet. Sister, are you still upset with me, refusing to sell to me on purpose
I felt at a loss.
Im not. You cant use this many for arranging. If you want some, I can choose a few for you
Sister, you didnt attend college, and you have a criminal record. Life will only become tougher for you.
Brielle interrupted me. I know you still hate me. Im saying sorry to you, begging you to accept Mom and Dad, and my help.
Even if youre mad, you cant bet your own future on anger!
She spoke softly, sadly.
People passing by couldnt hear her tone, only saw her look, so they would think I was bullying her, just like before.
I grew tired. If youre not taking any, leaving.
Hattie Hopkins!
Mom knit her brows. Brielle is doing this for your sake! Back then, we were the ones who handled it, we were the ones who made the decision!
If you want to blame someone, blame us! Dont trouble the one who didnt do anything!
I was completely fed up with them. I said, if youre not taking any, leave.
Brielles tears dropped at once.
My parents rushed to pull her behind them. Hattie!
They frowned at me, waiting for me to say sorry like before. But I simply turned to sort my flowers, not even giving them a look.
A sigh came. These five years we never moved.
Before walking off, Dad turned around. If one day you feel regret, well be waiting.
Before getting into the car, Mom spoke, Honestly, back then, we truly didnt mean to ruin your path We werent favoring Brielle
I put on a polite smile.Thanks for your support.
Moms eyes grew even wetter, and Dad lowered his head to hold back tears. Then, the Rolls-Royce pulled away.
My assistant, Ivy Collins, stuck her head out. Was that a Rolls-Royce earlier? Sis, a big client!
I neatly trimmed the flower stems. Just passing by.
Wow! Serious gossip alert!
Ivy let out a breath. Isnt that the plate number of the Hopkins family? The biggest corporation in Charleston came to our flower booth!
I heard their daughter just finished college and is about to take over the company!
Did they show up to buy flowers for the handover event? Sis, did you grab another massive deal?!
Not one flowers are sold.