Chapter 325

Zachary unwrapped each package one by one, carefully placing the cartoon merchandise resembling his mom, Annalise, around his room. As he worked, he suddenly remembered that his mom had once taken a few photos and they were kept in this very room. He rummaged through drawers and shelves until he finally found them tucked away at the bottom of the wardrobe. Gently, he cleaned the pictures and arranged them in every corner of the room. Lying in bed, clutching his blanket tightly, he inhaled deeply, surrounded by his mom's photos. For a fleeting moment, it felt as if she were still there, keeping him company. His heart lightened, the ache momentarily subdued. Although his current life felt painful compared to the past, Zachary couldn't help but think of his dad. As compared to Steven, his own life didn't seem so unbearable after all. Yet, not a shred of pity stirred in Zachary's heart for his father. Steven had made so many mistakes that the misery he endured now felt like well-deser