I climbed up the stairs.

'Act normal, act normal, act normal' I chant in my head. Hoping my mother wouldn't suspect a thing.

"Crystal, is that you?" my mother asked from the kitchen.

'So much for acting normal' I cursed at myself.
"Yes mother. I'm just going upstairs to finish my embroidery!" I answered, praying my voice didn't crack.

"Okay, your father will be home in a few minutes!" she said.

I continued going upstairs, passing my room, and keep ran straight to the attic. There is a big window going to the roof. I haul myself up.

"Need help?" someone asked. He gave me his hand. Smiling, I take it.

In no time, I was already sitting beside him on our roof.

"Your mom downstairs?"

"Yeah, she said dad is almost home. We can't be long." I said disappointedly.

"It's okay, my love. Seeing your face right now made my day better." he cupped my cheek.

"We can't do this forever you know. We can't keep hiding." I said.

"I know, but your mom would never accept me. You're family is ranked. And I'm a nobody."