My heart twisted painfully at his words. My chest heaved with rage as I finally spoke up, "Be grateful! I've stood by you since high school, Rowan Price. I ignored your financial situation, didn't let it bother me. But now, you're nothing but a disappointment!"
Madeline's innocent expression melted, replaced by a flash of anger as she shouted, "How dare you speak to Rowan like that?"
I moved toward her, but Rowan pulled her back protectively. Another slap stung my face, this time with a red mark that throbbed painfully and pain on my cheek wounded my heart as sharp.
Madeline's eyes gleamed with smug satisfaction as though she felt untouchable and could do anything to me.
Without hesitation, I sneered and slapped Rowan with my backhand in return.
I watched as his expression turned into disbelief. "Why are you acting like crazy?"
"Why are you acting like a barking dog?" I countered coldly. "Tell me, Rowan Price, who am I to you?"
The door to the ward had drawn a small crowd, their curious eyes on us. Some recognized Madeline from her internet fame and were already recording with their phones, eager for drama.