I coldly swept my gaze over the people chastising me and spoke calmly. Still, Julian cut them off sharply before they could say more. "Scarlett, apologize! You've gone too far this time. Anne just got out of the hospital and you scared her."
Even though it was a hot summer day, I shivered uncontrollably as if I had fallen into a cold cave. The burning pain in my calf was nothing compared to the agony in my heart.
The man who once gave me a sense of safety and strength now seemed like an executioner, cutting me to pieces. The final thread in my mind snapped.
"Fine, I'll apologize." I laughed bitterly, tears welling up in my eyes.
Julian was taken aback momentarily and tried to reach out to me, but I dodged him.
"Dinner is ready and I've apologized. Can I go to my room to bandage my burn now?" I shook the blistered skin, hoping he would finally leave me alone. After saying that, I ignored the mess and returned to my room.
There was a lot of noise outside the door and I heard Anne's aggrieved voice. "I'm sorry. It's all my fault that Scarlett is angry. I'm such a jinx. I shouldn't cause you any more trouble."