The children were left out of these conversations, unable to understand a single word unless their father allowed it. It was a strange and isolating experience to be so close to a culture yet so far removed from it.Her mother's gentle voice echoed in her ears as she felt a soft touch on her hair. "Anyways, come down and eat with us, dear; dinner is ready," she said with a loving smile. The sweet scent of the food wafted up the stairs, making her stomach grumble with hunger.She slowly got up from bed, feeling the day's weight on her shoulders. As she made her way down the stairs, she could hear the sound of her family's chatter and laughter, filling the house with warmth and joy. She couldn't help but smile, grateful for the love and comfort surrounding her.As soon as my mother rose from her slumber and departed, I trailed after her down the stairs.Mark's cheerful greeting caught me off guard, and for a moment, I didn't know how to respond. It wasn't until I felt a twinge of annoya
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