Chapter 134
vas always?
Since Suzanne had wrapped up everything she needed to do for the day, she smiled and agreed. “Sounds good Same place as
Cheryl’s face lit up instantly, her excitement shining through. “Yes! Perfect! See you in a bit!”
With their plans set, Suzanne started the car and headed toward their meeting spot.
Bright lights illuminated the crowded streets. The area was filled with the scent of grilled food and the chatter of vendors and customers.
Suzanne circled around a few times before finally finding a parking spot. After locking up, she made her way toward the small alley at the back of the market.
Tucked away in the very comer, a tiny barbecue joint was packed to the brim. Despite its hidden location, the place was booming–the line outside was proof enough.
Suzanne found a small table in the farthest corner and sat down. As she flipped through the menu, she glanced toward the entrance just in time to see a familiar figure walk in
Cheryl had arrived.
Dressed in a casual gray tracksuit, her long ponytail swayed with every step. She had on light makeup, which made her face look fresh and full of energy
Suzanne waved
Cheryl immediately spotted her and walked over with a grin. “For once, you actually got here before me”
She slipped the bag from her shoulder, setting it on the bench before taking a seat.
Suzanne chuckled. “I was already nearby, so it wasn’t far. Order whatever you want—it’s my treat” She said the menu toward Cheryl
Cherd tilted her head playfully and smirked. “Oh? Then I won’t hold back.”
Whenever they ate out, Suzanne usually covered the bill.
Cheryl never had much money, and Suzanne had long since made it a habit to help out whenever she could.
As Cheryl scanned the menu, Suzanne’s gaze dropped to her hands. Her fingers were rough, the skin wrinkled from constant exposure to water. Some areas were even inflamed signs of infection.
Suzanne frowned, her heart tightening
She picked up her cup of water, took a small sip, and then asked casually, “Cheryl, what have you bem up to lately?
Cheryl didn’t even look up as she continued selecting dishes. “Same as always. Dishwashing shifts after work, running deliveries–whatever pays the bills.”
She said it so casually like it was just another part of her routine. But to Suzanne, it was anything but trivial
She reached into her bag, pulled out a small jar of cream that she had made herself, and placed it in front of Cheryl “Use this for your hands. Try it out. I think it’ll help” Cheryl’s condition needed treatment. If the infections got worse, it’d be serious
Eut Suzanne knew her too well–cheryl would never spend money on herself. She had tried helping her before, only for Cheryl to refuse. She insisted she didn’t want to owe Suzanne anything and promised she’d pay her back someday
Her family situation had always been difficult. Her mother’s calls prevented her from working, which meant Cheryl had been carrying the financial burden alone for years, cheryl picked up the jar and sniffed it. “Whew! It smells strong”
She wasn’t complaining, though. Every time Suzanne gave her medicine, it worked like a chan
Suzanne laughed lightly. “It’s medicine, not perfume.”
Cheryl stack her tongue out playfully before smiling. “Thanks, Suzanne.”
With their order placed, they started reminiscing about their high school days and laughing at old memories!
Cheryl propped her chins in her hands, grinning “Hey, do you remember that chubby kid from our class back in high school?”
