“I’ve been thinking,” she continued. “About my life… about what would actually make me happy.”
I tried to smile gently.
“Tell me, honey. If I can help—”
She cut me off with a cold stare.
“The best gift you could give me… is to disappear from my life. Honestly, it would be easier if you were just gone. Dead.”
Everything inside me stopped.
The laughter from outside faded. The room felt hollow, airless. I searched her face for a hint of regret, of emotion—but there was nothing. Just irritation.
“What… did you say?” I whispered.
“You heard me. I’m tired of you—your calls, your visits, your constant opinions. You suffocate me.”
My hands trembled uncontrollably.
“Sofia… I’m your mother. I gave you everything.”
“Exactly,” she snapped. “And that’s why you think you’re entitled to everything. I’m not a child anymore. I don’t need you.”
I glanced at the cake. The candles were still inside the box, untouched.
Slowly, I stood up. I took my purse—and the silver box. The necklace would not stay in a place where my love meant nothing.
“After everything…” I murmured.
She laughed coldly.
“You did it to feel important. Don’t pretend you’re a saint.”