"Annabelle isn't sleeping," he said coldly. "She's unconscious, hooked to machines. While you're here, wide awake, eating fruit and plotting."
The weight of Richard's words slammed into the room like a thunderclap.
Sophia froze, mouth hanging open. Samuel shifted uncomfortably. Abigail blinked rapidly, caught off guard — but recovered quickly, snorting bitterly.
"Mom. Dad." Her voice was sharp now, demanding. "Leave. I want to talk to Richard. Alone."
Samuel hesitated but Abigail's glare was enough to send both parents out without protest. Marc stayed rooted by the door until Richard gave a small flick of his fingers. Reluctantly, Marc stepped out, but his eyes lingered on Abigail for a beat longer, warning glint in them.
The room fell silent, just Richard and Abigail.
Abigail lowere
