Thirty two

She grunts softly, applying another layer of powder under her eyes but it was still obvious how exhausted she was and how her dark circles were evident. She breathes out calmly, trying not to breakdown for the incalculable time that day. Tonight was a big night—it was her father’s forty fifth birthday and she needs to look presentable for the guests that were already out there at the backyard having fun.

She exhales again, smoothening her dress and taking a look at herself one last time before stepping out of her room.

It was time to plaster that fake smile.

She walks to the back door through the kitchen and stepped out. The backyard was more crowded than she expected it to be. She looks around, searching for her friends. She spotted them by the food stall, having a drink and laughing about something.

She squeezed through the crowd as she smiled and exchanged pleasantries. Several elegantly-dressed guests were already milling around, each with a cocktail in hand.

“Having a drink