Chapter 5

Felicia's voice came through my earpiece. "It's all Marcus' fault. If he hadn't asked to see the painting, you wouldn't have tripped and hurt your arm. You rely on your hands to make a living. If you can't paint anymore because of this, I'd feel so guilty."

Derek replied, "It's fine. It's just a minor injury. Don't worry about it."

As I walked farther away, my stomach churned like I had swallowed a fly.

Felicia continued, "Derek, you got hurt because of him. It makes me so sad."

"Felicia, it's really okay. I was the one who wanted to show your best work to Marcus. It was just an accident. Don't blame him..." Derek assured.

"You're so understanding, Derek. Marcus doesn't get me at all. Only you really care about me," Felicia continued to whine.

I let out a bitter laugh. I'd never let Felicia lift a finger at home. I worked hard to provide for her, and she was saying I didn't understand her? What would understanding her look like? Painting her in that way?

I wondered how she'd fee