CHAPTER 179

Elijah’s POV

Mrs. Baker looked shocked at my answer. Then her expression turned to disappointment. It tore at my insides, knowing that she was just doing this too for the sake of her daughter.

But I can’t lie to her, to Julia, or to myself.

Julia’s face crumpled as if my refusal had physically struck her. “I don’t have to marry anyone!” she cried out, her voice trembling. “I can’t do anything right now anyway. I’m no use to anyone, and I’ll just be a disgrace!”

“Julia, that’s not what —” I began to say. But she wouldn’t listen to me.

“No!” she cried out. “You’re right in refusing because I won’t make a good wife. I’m helpless and useless now.” She began to sob, her shoulders racking uncontrollably.

Mrs. Baker reached out to console her, but Julia shook her off and hastily walked away, her tears glistening under the harsh fluorescent lights.

“Julia, wait!” I called after her, quickly mumbling an apology to Mrs. Baker before rushing to catch up. “Julia, please, let me explain.”

She