My tears fell freely and effortlessly, a perfect picture of fragile, innocent despair.
Every pair of eyes in the room widened in surprise.
Voice trembling with manufactured guilt, I took full blame for the entire conflict. "This is all my fault. I should've called for help the second I found Marcus after his accident. I never should've stayed to care for him day and night. I never should've grown attached, never should've followed him back here."
I continued, my tone soft and pleading. "I'm the reason this family keeps fighting. Please stop arguing. Let Marcus rest properly. If my presence upsets Mrs. Sterling, send me back to Areano City. Just please don't fight anymore."
Marcus's heart visibly softened at my tearful plea.
He leaned forward quickly, pulling me gently but firmly into
