37

N n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

I stood up from floor without help.

John's voice cut through the heavy silence. "Why am I allowing myself to be in this situation?" he said, his voice tinged with self-doubt.

I looked up at him, my heart sinking. "I'm sorry for my pathetic life," I said, the words barely above a whisper. "I think it's too much for you to handle."

John's eyes widened. "I didn't mean that," he said quickly.

"Oh, really? What did you mean, then?" I replied, the bitterness in my voice barely concealed. "Don't worry, I'll leave and go back to my parents. That's what you want anyway, isn't it?"

I turned to walk away, but John's voice stopped me in my tracks. "I said I didn't mean that! Why can't you understand? Stop being so spoiled and just listen!"