My parents used to say that after death, one should return to their roots. I needed to take a train back to our hometown to arrange their funerals.
I packed a few things and opened the door, only to see Zackary and Carrie step out of the elevator, laughing and chatting.
Zackary's smile froze, and he frowned. "Are you running away from home?"
I didn't say a word and tried to walk away, but he grabbed my arm.
He said, "Just because the wedding didn't happen, you're making a fuss about breaking up and running away from home, aren't you?"
His casual tone infuriated me, and just as I was about to lash out, Carrie interrupted with a sarcastic tone, "Norma, let me explain. I've been sick these past few days, and Zackary took care of me, which disrupted your wedding plans. I'm really sorry."
Carrie affectionately hugged Zackary's arm and leaned her head on his shoulder.
They looked like a close couple.
"There's no need to explain," I said. "Zackary and I have already broken up. From now on, even if you two are together 24/7, it has nothing to do with me."
Zackary's face darkened instantly. "Norma, can't you speak nicely? Why are you being so sarcastic? You weren't like this before."
I looked him straight in the eye and said, "I wasn't like this before because I was stupid and blind."
This was the first time I had ever snapped at him.
Zackary was taken aback and finally realized something was off with my mood.
He gently brushed off Carrie's hand and tried to hug me, but I dodged him.
He said, "Can't you stop making a scene? Did your parents get upset and yell at you?"
He softened his tone to coax me.
But it was too late. I didn't care anymore.
Before I could say anything, Carrie snorted, "They should be grateful instead of upset. Their family has been poor for generations, and their daughter marrying into the Santana family should be a dream come true. A golden catch like Zackary isn't something just anyone can snag."
Her words were full of sarcasm, but Zackary didn't seem to mind.
"I'll go explain to your parents," he said. "They're usually easy to talk to."
I instantly broke down, my voice trembling. "Just because they're easy to talk to, you think you can hurt them again and again? You promised to visit them, but you always broke your promises. Seeing that they didn't blame you, you thought you could even cancel the wedding halfway?"