Some mothers didn't care about their own daughters, and there were mothers like her—willing to do anything for their children.
I respected her. I respected her honesty.
"Don't worry," I told her firmly. "No matter what happens to me, I'll make sure you and your daughter are taken care of for the rest of your lives."
Her eyes reddened instantly, and I could see how much those words meant to her.
She was a good mother—through and through.
When she offered to protect me while I was here, saying she was willing to risk everything as long as I promised to help her daughter, I refused.
I didn't want her to take unnecessary risks. She deserved a chance to live peacefully with her daughter without jeopardizing her future.
Besides, I had my own way of handling things.
I returned to my cot, but before lying down, I turned to the room. A few of the other women were already eyeing me, their expressions full of ill intent.
"I don't care what anyone promised you or how muc
