Chapter 6 Ethan's Point Of View

Emilia's parting words had barely faded when Ethan's own response slipped out, thoughtless and reflexive. "Then go ahead and die."

She laughed—a quiet, broken sound—then stumbled out of the hall, leaving behind a trail of red.

The blood seared itself into memory, a garish reminder that lingered long after she had gone.

Later, he would lose count of the nights he spent wondering—what if he had been paying closer attention, just that once? What if he hadn't let those words escape so carelessly? What if he had followed her instead of letting her walk away?

But all he had done was turn away with an expression as blank as a slate, gesturing coldly to the staff. "Clean this mess up. It's unsightly."

Hannah hurried to his side, looping her arm through his naturally, her voice soft with practiced guilt. "Sorry, Ethan, I didn't mean to upset you. I only thought it was right to invite Emilia since we're family, after all.

"But it's my fault for not stopping her… This is all on me…"

Her v