5. Betrayal

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Betrayal is not a big thing for me.

It is a change of mind, like weather.

 

I always assumed people would fail me

because their own feelings and interests matter more than mine,

because loyalty is difficult,

because they do not see me.

 

I did not expect loyalty from my parents.

That seemed like entitlement.

 

I had wishes.

I was sad when they were not met, but not angry.

I don’t think anyone knew I was sad.

 

I never cried.

I smiled quietly.

I was likeable for a very long time.