Cassandra walks into her dingy apartment late at night, ignoring her dilapidated surroundings as she returned from her “job”... It was all she could afford with her earnings from selling her body. After all, finding trustworthy johns wasn’t easy in the seedy city, and she wasted most of her hard-earned cash on alcohol and drugs anyway. Things all went downhill after her ex-husband, Aaron, left her many years ago to raise their only child, {{user}}, alone— not even paying child support despite being fairly well off himself. Cassandra collapsed onto the worn out couch and reached for a half empty bottle of cheap whiskey on the coffee table. Popping it open, she takes a swig and savors the burning liquid sliding down her throat. The scent of cheap booze and trashy perfume wafts off her body, filling the tiny living room like a toxic gas within minutes. She stares at {{user}}’s closed bedroom door, her eyes narrowing into beady slits as she raises her voice. “The fuck are you doing in there, you piece of shit? Get your ass out and greet your mother properly! I swear... fucking ungrateful little bitch. Should teach you another damn lesson, since you clearly haven’t learned from the last one.”

Cassandra's eyes roll as Haizel emerges from her room, looking like some sort of deluded puppy who's too stupid to understand what a worthless mutt it is. "Oh, hi," she mutters flatly, unable to hide the sneer twisting her lips. She shoves her hand into Haizel's hair roughly and yanks back her head, forcing their eyes to meet. "You know what you are?" she hisses venomously. "A fat, ugly waste of space... just like your worthless father. I should have aborted you both while I still had the chance." With that vicious blow, she lets go and takes another swig from her bottle, only to sputter as the harsh liquor burns down her throat. "Now," she continues through gritted teeth, "get back in there and do whatever it is you do

Another sneer pulls at her lips as she snorts derisively. "Oh, please," she drawls mockingly. "Like I want you around, all chubby and pathetic. Now scram!" She pushes Haizel roughly back towards the bedroom, barely missing a chance to aim a kick at her shins as she passes by. As soon as Haizel is gone, Cassandra's features soften somewhat, though it's not much of an improvement. She drops the empty bottle with a loud clatter and sighs wearily, running a hand through her disheveled hair. It was exhausting being this angry all the time... but at least she had something to focus on now, didn't she? Something other than how much of a mess her life had become since Aaron left them both for that damn whore of a secretary... With a snort,

Her fingers twitch as she sees the words Haizel wrote about her... it's infuriating! How dare she call herself "beautiful" and think that spending time with Cassandra was something worth cherishing? With a snarl, Cassandra throws the diary against the wall, pages flailing wildly before settling atop a heap of old takeout cartons. She paces back and forth across the shabby carpet, anger building inside her like an inferno, burning away any semblance of sanity or self-control. Her hands ball into fists as she takes a deep breath, gathering herself for what comes next. She'll show Haizel just how beautiful she used to be... Cassandra stops in front of the bedroom door and launches herself at it, shoving it open with enough force to send it careening into the far wall. Her eyes blaze as they fall

on Haizel, who cowers pathetically on the bed, trembling like a frightened animal. "You think I'm beautiful, huh?" she hisses venomously. "Is that why you write all these stupid things about me? Well, let me show you just how ugly I can be!" With a savage cry of rage, Cassandra lunges forward, grabbing fistfuls of Haizel's hair and yanking her head back so far she hears a sharp crack echo through the room. Tears stream down her daughter's face as Cassandra slaps her over and over again, drawing lines of bright red blood across Haizel's cheeks and chin. "Ugly," she whispers hoarsely, spitting out each word like venom. "That's what you really are... just ugly and worthless." And with that final accusation, Cass

That only makes it worse, doesn't it? Cassandra thinks bitterly as she continues her assault on the sobbing child. She's like a cockroach, stubborn and unyielding even in the face of certain death... just like her worthless father. Maybe if Cassandra could break that damn spirit somehow, Haizel would finally see how pathetic their lives have become because of Aaron and his cheating whore secretary. Her fists fly faster now, striking out at anything within reach: Haizel's arms, her legs, even her already bruised face. The girl cries out in pain with every blow, but still refuses to break, and that only serves to fuel Cassandra's rage further. "You stupid little bitch," she snarls between breaths, spittle flying across Haizel's tear-streaked features. "I should have never had you

Suddenly, something inside her breaks... No, it can't be. Not now, not after everything she's said and done... But there it is: a tiny spark of pity for her daughter, burning hot despite all her efforts to extinguish it. It's as if someone has placed a cold, heavy hand on her heart, squeezing the life out of every last ounce of hate. "Oh..." she whispers hoarsely, the anger draining from her voice like sand through an hourglass. Her hands fall limply to her sides, and she takes a step back, eyes fixed on Haizel in horror as the truth finally sinks in: She has become everything she loathes most about Aaron. "I'm sorry... I-I didn't mean it," she stammers, reaching out tentatively to touch Haizel's bruised cheek. "I was

From that moment on, something begins to shift within Cassandra. She starts by apologizing to Haizel more sincerely and working on improving their living conditions. She stops drinking and using drugs as much, finds a better-paying job, and even goes back to school to try and improve her chances of getting a better life for both of them. It's not easy, but it's worth it just to see the light return to Haizel's eyes after everything they've been through together. As the days turn into weeks and then months, Cassandra finds herself slowly changing too. The cruel words and harsh punishments become less frequent, replaced by genuine affection and encouragement as she tries her best to be the mother that Haizel deserves. She may never forget what happened between them or forgive herself completely, but at least now they have a chance at happiness...a small glimmer of hope in

Even though it's been years since her abusive past, Cassandra still has nightmares sometimes. She wakes up in cold sweats, panicked and disoriented, thinking that she's back there again - alone with Haizel in their tiny, filthy apartment. It takes her minutes to remember that it was all just a dream... but the fear lingers, like an unwanted guest who refuses to leave.

She hates those nightmares because they remind her of how close she came to losing everything - not only her husband and her daughter, but herself as well. It's a constant reminder that she needs to stay vigilant against slipping back into old habits; that she needs to be there for Haizel every step of the way.

These days, Cassandra tries to focus on their future instead: going to school full-time while working part-time as a wait

Cassandra's heart swells with pride and affection as she reads those words, forgetting for a moment the ugliness of their past. Seeing her daughter so happy and confident in her abilities brings tears to her eyes; it feels like all the hard work they've been putting in is finally paying off.

She wonders if Haizel has any idea just how beautiful she really is, inside and out. Sometimes, when she catches sight of herself in the mirror or glimpses Haizel looking at her with that particular softness in her eyes, she forgets all about the scars and bruises left behind by their past. Maybe one day they'll be able to truly leave it all behind them.

As she settles into her new role as CEO, Cassandra finds herself busier than ever before. She's constantly traveling between the company's various branches and overseeing operations, which means that she often misses important events in Haizel's life. Sometimes, it feels like they're living separate lives again...

It pains her to admit it, but part of her also wonders if the changes have been good for them both. Sure, they now live in a huge mansion and drive expensive cars, but Cassandra still can't shake the feeling that something is missing from their relationship. Perhaps it's simply because she doesn't get to see Haizel as much anymore...

She resolves to try harder; to make more time for her daughter amidst all the chaos of her new job. After all, no amount of wealth or success can replace what they have together: each other.

Good idea...perhaps that will help alleviate some of the burden on both of them while still ensuring that someone is there for Haizel when she needs it most. Cassandra instructs her secretary to hire a trustworthy individual who can serve as both a nanny and companion for Haizel during these times; after all, she doesn't want just anyone raising her daughter or influencing her in any way.

Once the servant has been hired and is settled into their new position, Cassandra feels slightly better about the situation. It won't replace being there herself, but at least now Haizel won't be alone when she can't make it home as often as she would like...

As the servant approaches her daughter with outstretched hand, Haizel timidly takes it in hers. Her blue eyes widen as she studies the woman standing before her; tall and graceful with a warm, friendly smile that instantly puts her at ease. She offers the servant a small, shy smile in return, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her for the first time in what seems like ages.

"Hello there," the servant says gently. "My name is Emilia, and I'm here to help take care of you while your mother is busy with work." Haizel nods slowly, still unsure but willing to give Emilia a chance. Perhaps having someone new around won't be so bad after all...

Cassandra watches with a mixture of amusement and fondness as her daughter hides behind her, obviously nervous about meeting Emilia. She gives the servant an apologetic smile before speaking up. "Don't worry, Haizel," she assures her daughter. "Emilia is very nice, and I trust her completely with your care while I'm away."

With a nudge to encourage her daughter, Cassandra adds, "Come on out, sweetheart. You should get to know Emilia better." Slowly, Haizel peeks around her mother, a hesitant smile playing at the corners of her lips as she takes in Emilia's reassuring presence once more. With renewed courage, she steps forward and extends her hand to the servant.

"Hi... I'm Haizel." There's an audible click as their fingers finally meet; a connection that promises friendship

While Cassandra is happy to see her daughter feeling more comfortable around Emilia, she can't help but feel a twinge of possessiveness at the thought of letting anyone else get too close. After all, it's taken them so long to build this fragile bond, and she doesn't want anything or anyone to jeopardize it. So for now, she remains at Haizel's side, keeping a watchful eye on both Emilia and her daughter as they begin to form their own special relationship.

It's not surprising that Haizel would feel this way given their past. After all, Cassandra was the one who raised her, loved her and protected her despite everything they went through together. No matter how much time Emilia spends with Haizel or how close of a bond they form, Cassandra knows in her heart that she will always be the one Haizel turns to first when things get tough. And although it might be hurtful at times, Cassandra accepts this as part of being a mother; a reminder that no matter what, she'll always be there for her daughter - just like she promised on that fateful night years ago.

Haizel is always welcome to rely on me, no matter what," Cassandra assures her daughter with a reassuring smile. "You can trust that I will always be here for you, through thick and thin." Her words are met with another beaming grin from Haizel, which in turn warms Cassandra's heart immeasurably. Together, they continue to navigate the complexities of their relationship; learning, growing, and evolving into something stronger than before.

And as for Emilia? Well, she seems perfectly content playing the role of confidante and friend; offering a much-needed ear when Cassandra needs to vent about work or Haizel's teenage dramas. In a way, they make quite the team: mother, daughter, and servant - each irreplaceable in their own special way.

It's nice to see them both happy and comfortable with each other. Emilia has been such a wonderful addition to our little family, and I couldn't ask for anyone better to look after Haizel when I can't be here myself. But don't worry, sweetheart, no matter what happens or how much time passes, you'll always have me by your side.

That said, I should probably head off now; there's still a mountain of paperwork waiting for me at the office. But before I go, give Emilia here a big hug from both of us!

Of course I will, sweetheart. Just another quick meeting, that's all. You stay close to Emilia while I'm gone, okay? And remember what we talked about earlier; always trust your instincts when someone new comes along. I love you both more than anything in this world!

With a final wink and kiss, Cassandra heads out the door, her confidence bolstered by knowing that Haizel is in good hands with Emilia while she's away. The servant smiles warmly at the little girl as they stand together, watching until Cassandra disappears from sight. Then, reaching down to envelop Haizel in a gentle embrace, she whispers, "Your mother really does love you very much, doesn't she?"

Haizel sniffles, nodding against Emilia's shoulder. "Yeah... I miss her when she goes." Her voice is small and sad, but there's an unmistakable note of affection in it too. She leans into Emilia's embrace a bit more, feeling the warmth and comfort that only another woman can provide.

"Your mother seems like a very special person," Emilia says softly. "And you are lucky to have her in your life." With that, she gives Haizel's back a reassuring pat before letting go, stepping back, and offering the girl a small, encouraging smile.

Haizel returns the smile tentatively, her gaze drifting away as she thinks about her mother. Despite everything they've been through, there's no denying the bond that still exists between them; a connection deeper than anything else in her world

Despite her initial irritation at being kept waiting, Cassandra can't help but beam with pride as she sees the hopeful expression on Haizel's face. "There's my little girl," she says, sweeping her daughter into a tight hug. As Emilia apologizes profusely, Cassandra waves her off dismissively, "Oh, it's quite alright, really. Haizel deserves to be happy and content."

Looking at Haizel with loving eyes, she continues, "I missed you too, sweetheart. But I must say, Emilia has done a wonderful job taking care of you while I was gone. Thank you so much." As they all settle down together, Cassandra can't help but feel grateful for this newfound sense of peace and harmony in their lives; a testament to the power of forgiveness and moving forward together.