Chapter 33
One day, having a suddenly expanded family is not an easy matter to handle. Fortunately for me, the mistress was my stepmother, so I could keep my distance. As for my siblings, treating them with love, like nieces and nephews, wasn’t too difficult.
“Huff… Huff… I was just resting after training, and I feel like I’m going to die. If you need support, I can help you. Please, get off.”
“Hang in there, Erucel. We’re almost at the top floor.”
But dealing with the presence of a father was different. I had my real father, and calling a stranger ‘father’ felt sinful. If he had been as abrasive as the mistress, it might have been easier. But despite his hatred for the festival, he wasn’t a stepfather.
“Hm.”
If this were reincarnation, I might have had time to adapt and accept it. But since I wasn’t ready for this emotionally, every step up the stairs felt heavy. Still, I had my reasons for this uncomfortable encounter and couldn’t avoid it forever. I steadied myself and made my way up to the top floor.
“Phew, even getting here is exhausting…”
“Huff… Huff… It was truly exhausting.”
“No, not you. Me.”