Chapter 10

In truth, Britta wasn't wrong. I hadn't been to those places.

But the reason I knew she was lying...

Was because of my mom.

It's not like I was born without parents.

She was an international news reporter, and later became a war zone correspondent.

In that era, a woman working abroad while the man stayed home to raise the kids was considered absolutely outrageous.

The neighbors always mocked me.

"Your mom abandoned you!"

I'd clench my fists and punch them, fiercely defending my dignity as a child, only to be laughed at even more mercilessly.

When I was little, seeing her even once was difficult.

But she often sent letters with postmarks from all around the world.

She wrote about her life there in great detail, always including photos.

The happiest moments of my childhood were sitting on Dad's lap, listening to him read those letters.

Then I'd imagine that spirited female journalist in my mind.