Maya

My mother dragged me to a quiet corner as we exited the meeting room. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation.

"So, you've finally decided to heed your mom's advice, huh?" Her grin stretched from ear to ear as she pulled me into an embrace. This was the first time in years that she had hugged me, and every fiber of my being revolted against it. I hated it—I absolutely fucking hated it.

She was no mother; she was a blood-sucking parasite, one who'd drain the life out of ...