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"It puts us in a really tough spot," I say quietly. "I was working so much already, and I knew there was no way I could pay it back for you. Not with the interest piling up." I swallow hard. "So I made the decision to...find another solution."
Minnie stops, turning to face me. "Dare Morgan," she whispers. "You married him because of my mistake."
I nod, tears pricking my eyes. "I didn't see any other choice. I know it seems glamorous now, but at the time, it felt like selling my soul. I was so angry at you, Minnie. Angry that your recklessness forced me into that position."
"Oh honey." Minnie pulls me into a fierce hug. "I am so, so sorry. I never wanted that for you." She strokes my hair as I finally let the tears fall, years of resentment washing away.
I take a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. "It wasn't just the loan shark incident. Even before that, money was always a source of stress for us."
I glance at Minnie. "All those fancy dresses you bought, the lavish gifts for your gentleman friends...we couldn't afford any of it. But I could never bring myself to say anything. I just kept working extra shifts, pinching pennies. I was so tired, Minnie."
Minnie looks stricken. "Oh Talia, I had no idea. I thought since you never complained..." She trails off.
"I know," I say gently. "I didn't want to upset you, so I stayed quiet. But it took a toll, feeling like I had to shoulder the burden alone."
"You're right, you shouldn't have had to do that."
"Well... I did," is all I can say.
Minnie squeezes my hand gently as we stroll along the path. "I hope you know how much I love you, Talia. You're the daughter I never had."
Her words make my eyes well up. "I love you too," I say thickly. "I didn't want you to feel bad about the past. But I'm trying to be more open when something is bothering me."
"You did the right thing, dear." Minnie pats my arm reassuringly. "Don't keep your feelings bottled up on my account. You can always come to me."
I nod, blinking back tears. "I will. It wasn't easy but...I feel better having cleared the air between us."
"Me too." Minnie gives me a watery smile. "No more secrets, no more resentment. Just honesty and understanding from now on."
We meander along the tree-lined path, leaves crunching under our feet. The tension that had coiled inside me for years has finally unfurled.
Minnie glances at me, her eyes crinkling with warmth.
"Talia, I want you to know that I'll always be here for you, no matter what," Minnie says softly. "You're the daughter I never had. I know I made mistakes, but nothing can change how much I love you."
Her words make my eyes prickle with tears. I blink them back, not wanting to break down again.
"I appreciate you saying that, Minnie," I reply. "It means a lot to know I'll always have your support."
She gives my hand a gentle squeeze. I feel the warmth of her palm against mine, a reassuring presence.
Up ahead, a mother pushes her toddler on a swing set. The little girl's delighted giggles float through the air. The mother's face glows with love as she gazes at her child.
The scene makes my heart ache. I wish my own mother had looked at me that way, even just once. But she was always too lost in her addictions to care.
Minnie seems to read my thoughts. "I know I can't replace your mother," she says. "But I'll always be here to listen and provide a shoulder to cry on. You're not alone anymore."
I nod, overcome with emotion. After years of loneliness, it feels unbelievable to have this kind of support. To have someone who wants only the best for me, who cares for me unconditionally.
"Thank you," I whisper. "I'm going to keep working on expressing myself more. No more locking away my feelings."
"That's wonderful," Minnie says. "I'm so proud of you."
We approach the front door of the house, and I take a deep breath before entering. So much has changed today. This morning I carried the weight of unresolved hurts and unspoken truths. Now that burden has lifted. The air feels lighter.
I glance at Minnie and we exchange a smile. Her eyes radiate warmth and love. For the first time, this house truly feels like home.
As I step inside, I vow to myself: no more hiding. No more fear of judgment or rejection. From now on, I will stand in my truth, expressing myself openly and honestly. The people who truly care about me will understand.
