Chapter 5

After this incident, my classmates avoided me even more.

I overheard them whispering about going to my house to tell my parents what happened.

"We'll back you up, don't be afraid."

"We have to get her kicked out, or who knows how you might end up dead one day."

Daisy glanced at me nervously before nodding to them.

As school let out, our housekeeper pulled up in the car. There was plenty of room for all of them.

They kept their distance from me and hailed a taxi instead.

I sat in the front seat. Ms. Yang tilted my chin up, examining my face.

Her eyes held a questioning look. I knew what she wanted to say.

[Did she hit you again?]

I pushed her hand away. "It's fine. I already got revenge."

Ms. Yang shook her head, her face as expressionless as ever. She signed to me:

[How rude. The master and madam should teach her a lesson.]

Teach her a lesson? If they found out, they'd probably just enjoy the show.

After all, those two often ended up with bruises themselves. From the sounds I occasionally overheard, it was very violent, but they seemed to like it.

When I got home, Daisy and her friends had already arrived.

They sat on the living room couch. In front of them was a white coffee table with gold trim, set with delicate cake plates and a vase that always held fresh red roses.

Mom sat in an armchair, hand on her chin, smiling as she listened to them.

"Lily's home!"

The room fell silent when I entered. Only Mom spoke enthusiastically.

"You must all be hungry. I'll check on dinner, it should be ready soon."

"Didn't you want to see the doll collection room? Lily can show you."

Their faces fell. "Mrs. Foster—"

Mom smiled. "I'm sure there's just been some misunderstanding at school. Why don't you clear things up today?"

"Lily, be a good host. Don't scare your classmates again."

I nodded to show I understood.