Chapter 46

Sophie’s pov ; As I sat on the sofa, watching Aunt Rosa bustle about in the kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of envy. This was the kind of warmth and ease a family should have—a comfortable atmosphere filled with gentle care and natural affection. Unlike me, Aunt Rosa’s daughter didn’t have to worry about housework or tending to siblings. She could just focus on being a child. I’ve been helping my parents with chores for as long as I can remember, running the store, taking care of my younger brother. I wasn’t a child who needed care for them; I was just…a tool. I never envied people with endless money, but I did envy people with endless love. How I wished I could have been born into a family like that. If only my parents had loved me even a little more. Aunt Rosa soon prepared a large spread of dishes. Before she left, I invited her to stay and eat with us. "Aunt Rosa, please stay and eat with us," I asked hopefully. She smiled at me, gentle and warm, like always. "No need, Sop