She Plotted Against Me, I Won My Life

Chapter 4

My adoptive father called me to the study. He was alone. He asked what I wanted to do, and I said I would go with my birth parents.

He sighed and handed me a property deed.

"We bought this for you as an eighteenth birthday gift. Take it." His voice softened, eyes glistening faintly. "We will miss you very much. Come visit your mother whenever you can."

I refused it. He did not press me, just put it away with a helpless look.

In the dream, accepting that deed had given Liora even more ammunition to turn them against me.

I would not give her any excuse this time.

*****

Outside, Liora was wearing the necklace, telling my adoptive mother, "Linnea gave this to me. She said it was her favorite one."

Used, then handed down to her. She was clearly trying to make my mother think I was ungrateful.

But she did not know the necklace's story, it was a one-of-a-kind piece my mother had designed herself, just for me.

Sure enough, my mother frowned. "I gave that to Linnea for her twelfth birthday." She relaxed a little, then added softly, "But it is sweet that she thought of you."

I saw Liora freeze, and felt a small, satisfied smile touch my lips.

My birth parents were waiting in my room. I walked over quickly, and tears filled their eyes.

"May we call you our Linnea?" my mother asked gently.

"Of course," I said with a smile.

My father let out a breath and helped me carry my bags. "Come on, then. Let us take you home."

I looked back one last time, said goodbye to my adoptive parents, then went with them to my real home.