Her mum sighed. "Your grandparents did not want your dad and me to get married. They have a lot of money and status, and wanted your dad to marry someone they chose, someone with the right breeding and education, but your dad fell in love with me. When we eloped, his whole family stopped talking to him. They want to make it up to your dad now, even though it is too late and I suppose that is the reason why they are so anxious to have you and why they agreed to let you live here. I only wish you would see the logic in this and let me leave in high spirits."
Hannah lowered her head in defeat. If she insisted on going with her mum, her mum would blame her if she failed at creating this better future she had her sights set on. She did not want her mum to hate her.
"Well, will you stay with them for a while, Hannah?"
"If that's what you want."
Her mum clapped her hands together. "Thank you, Hannah. Thank you for giving me a chance, I won't let you down, I promise."
Hannah nodded and took a deep breath. She turned to look at the house again and saw June come out. June had a ball and a paddle in her hands and started playing with it, keeping her eyes focused on Hannah.
Her mum opened the trunk and took out Hannah's one suitcase.
Hannah asked, "What about the rest of my things. I don't have much in that bag."
"I'll see about getting them shipped over here. Don't worry." Her mum smiled. "Everything is arranged. I have signed all the necessary papers, and now your Aunt Jessica will be your legal guardian for the time being. She will enrol you in school and make sure everything works out fine for you." After her mum handed the suitcase to Hannah, she opened the car door and sat down on the seat.
"Mum?" Hannah begged softly.
Her mum did not look at her as she said, "Now, don't make this any harder than it needs to be. I'll phone you in a few days and before you know it, I'll be back to fetch you."
"Why don't you just stay the night?" Hannah's heart was beating wildly in her chest.
Her mum shook her head slowly. She turned the ignition and the engine of the car roared to life. She turned to Hannah, "I don't have to tell you to be good and to behave yourself, because I know you will. I'll see you soon, Hannah."
Hannah still wanted to kiss her goodbye, give her a hug she would remember, but her mum started driving away.