FIFTY SIX

CAMILLE'S POV

They all left, leading me to deal with the aftermath of their mess. I looked back at my children.

Sophia looked like she was going to cry, and Collins seemed so afraid. This was the one thing I was trying to avoid, and somehow, it had found its way to me regardless.

"Camille," Neal reached for me to comfort me. But I shook away his hands.

"No," I told him, my eyes brimming with tears unshed. "I refuse to let this take its course the second time."

"I understand what you mean, Camille. But Milana is no harm. She is just going through a phase. It simply is an emotional response."

"That is how it starts. Uncontrolled emotions lead to a world of hurt. I know that better than anyone."

"Mommy?" Collins chipped in.

I froze, realizing I was tethering the edge of insanity. When I turned to face my children, I managed a strained smile, suppressing the storm raging within me that threatened to tip over. I wasn't going to lose it. Not for this.

"Everything's alright, my loves," I