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Author: Siwa Rose
last update Last Updated: 2025-03-09 20:04:00

Imogene Scott

I carefully press the small, pastel-colored sticker onto the bandage covering Lily’s tiny foot. A smiling cartoon bear grins back at me, as if that alone can erase my guilt. I kiss her forehead, inhaling the soft, baby-powder scent of her hair.

"I'm sorry, baby," I whisper, brushing a stray curl away from her face.

Lily shifts on the couch, pulling the plush blanket over her lap.

"It's not Mummy’s fault," she says in her small, serious voice. "Lily wasn’t careful."

My heart clenches. Even at four, she’s trying to take the blame for something that’s entirely mine. I should’ve cleaned up the glass right away. I should’ve been more careful.

I lift her tiny hand to my lips and kiss it. "Do you want me to get you anything?"

Lily’s eyes brighten. "Chocolates!"

I shake my head, smiling despite myself. "You know you can’t have sweets past seven, baby. It’s almost eight."

"Please, Mummy?" She pouts, her big brown eyes glaring at me.

I sigh.

"Fine," I relent,
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