Chapter 2

"Liam, you're up early. Do you have plans today?"

"Yeah, going to school. My teaching practicum is almost over."

Helen set a bowl of oatmeal in front of me, her tone gentle. "What are your plans after graduation? You and Megan are the same age, and you've been in school all these years. When you enter society, make more friends so you won't be lonely."

I understood her underlying meaning—she hoped I wouldn't cling too much to Megan. Robert Langley had indicated more than once that he hoped I'd help Megan in the future, maybe even become part of the family. But Helen didn't agree. Robert had gotten angry about it, calling her "ungrateful."

I'd once overheard their argument outside the study.

I understood what Helen meant, and it stung at the time.

The secret dependence and feelings beyond family affection I'd harbored in my youth—others could probably see them too.

Not just because my dad saved her, but because back then, Megan really had given the lonely me so much warmth.

But now I understood.

In her eyes, the Langleys had raised me all these years, and that debt was more or less repaid. There was no need to be bound together like real family anymore.

But I never needed them to repay any debt. I just wanted my dad back.

If they hadn't ignored the warnings and insisted on camping in that spot, Megan wouldn't have been swept away.

I smiled and said, "Helen, I've actually been wanting to tell you this for a while."

"The Langleys have raised me all these years, and I'm already an adult. I want to move out."

Helen paused. "Liam, you..."

"My dad used to say that ultimately, people can only rely on themselves. The Langleys took me in for so many years—you and Robert gave so much. I can't keep being a burden. It's time I lived independently."

"I wanted to talk to Megan about this last night, but she was upset. I'm only telling you, and I'd appreciate it if you'd keep it between us. I'm leaving the day after tomorrow."

Helen looked shocked. "So soon!"

She didn't offer any polite words of persuasion, just that one "so soon," which already revealed her true feelings. Probably realizing how she sounded, she quickly added, "I mean, isn't it too rushed? You still have so many things to sort out. If Megan finds out, she'll probably throw a fit."

"I'll leave it to you to explain it to her, then. Tell her after I'm gone."

Helen's expression softened. "Alright, Liam. You've always been sensible. Have you found a job? Where will you live?"

"I found one. I'm going to be a teacher. I report the day after tomorrow. Haven't found a place yet."

"That's good, very good." Helen's tone clearly lightened. She turned and went upstairs, quickly returning with some documents. "This apartment is downtown, right by the subway station. Very convenient. Take it, Liam. When you're living alone, stay safe. Don't rent a place with strangers."

I accepted it. My dad's life was worth all those years of support from them, plus this apartment. Teaching in a remote area would be tough, and I'd need money in the future. With this apartment, I'd at least have a place to stay when I came back. No need to be precious about it.