Chapter 63

After returning from the hospital, Penelope began to realize the vast differences in her and the Hansen family's living habits. First, there was Bob. He spat everywhere, flicked his cigarette ashes carelessly, and even left urine stains around the toilet seat. Then, there was Nora. She'd rinse a dishcloth under some water, then use it to wipe the dishes. If a spoon fell to the floor, she'd simply brush it off with her hands and place it back in the soup bowl. She constantly schemed to gain the smallest of advantages in any situation. And finally, there was Sean. In Penelope's eyes, Sean was like a pristine white rose blooming from the mud, untouched by its surroundings. At school, his every move exuded an ethereal air, his aloof and indifferent demeanor captivatingly charming. But at home… Penelope hated to admit it, but she felt like Sean's image had lost its magic. No matter how refined Sean seemed, growing up under parents like his meant he was inevitably influenced by their