The pain clawed at my insides. My hands gripped my chest, as if I could stop myself from falling apart. My voice shook as I spoke.
"I'm so sorry, Chelsea," I whispered through the tears.
I cried harder. "I’m sorry I failed you. I should’ve protected you. I made a promise and I broke it. I couldn’t keep you safe. I couldn’t get you the justice you deserve."
"What are you saying? Just tell us what really happened!" my mother snapped, her composure crumbling.
"I’m sorry..." My words quivered. "Sorry that you’re blaming someone who isn’t responsible. Sorry that—"
A sudden, violent tug on my hair silenced me.
Charlene.
Her fingers twisted into my hair, her fury flaring with every syllable. "Sorry for what, Louise? Just tell me where my baby’s body is! Stop hiding behind lies!"
"I didn’t hurt Chelsea!" I screamed, voice ragged from anguish. "I swear on the Moon Goddess! On my life—I swear I’m innocent!"
Charlene’s grip loosened, her face streaked with tears.
Phyllis rushed to her side, wrapping her in his arms. Then he faced me, his eyes ablaze with hatred.
"Why can’t you just admit it, Louise?" His tone was cutting, detached. "That’s all your family wants—to know where Chelsea is. Just tell us."