2
Julian finally raised his eyes. He placed his order nonchalantly, oblivious to my ashen complexion. "Scarlett, whip up something light for us and prepare some broth for Anne. It'll aid her recovery."
A piercing ache gripped my heart, making respiration difficult. I retreated to the kitchen, attempting to shut out their cheerful chatter. I felt like an outsider in my own residence.
In the past, I'd engage in frantic arguments, thinking it would restore my self-respect. However, I failed to realize that my outbursts only inflated their self-importance.
Anne always displayed patience, contrasting with my immature behavior. But I've reached my limit. This group, this relationship—it's not worth the effort anymore.
I was drained by the time I served the meal. Anne volunteered assistance but recoiled as I handed her the soup. The chicken broth splattered across the floor, the bowl shattering into innumerable fragments.
"Careful!" Julian swiftly protected Anne, while a large area of my exposed leg reddened from the scalding liquid.
"Scarlett, I understand your dislike for me, but deliberately dropping the bowl was unnecessary!" Despite not a drop touching her, Anne dramatically flung herself into Julian's embrace, feigning victimhood.
"Indeed. What's gotten into you, Scarlett?"
"You've been targeting Anne for ages. We're all friends here—why are you behaving this way?"
"She released the bowl first."
I cast a cold glance over my accusers and spoke calmly. Julian, however, silenced them abruptly. "Scarlett, apologize! You've crossed a line. Anne's just left the hospital and you've frightened her."
Despite the sweltering summer day, I trembled uncontrollably as if plunged into an icy cavern. The searing pain in my leg paled in comparison to the anguish in my heart.
The man who once provided security and strength now resembled an executioner, slicing me to pieces. The final thread of my sanity snapped.
"Very well, I'll apologize." I chuckled bitterly, tears welling up.
Julian hesitated momentarily and attempted to reach out, but I evaded him.
"The meal is ready and I've apologized. May I retire to my room to dress my burn now?" I indicated the blistered skin, hoping he'd finally leave me be. With that, I disregarded the chaos and retreated to my room.
Commotion erupted outside, and Anne's aggrieved voice carried through. "I'm so sorry. It's entirely my fault that Scarlett is upset. I'm such a bad omen. I shouldn't cause you any more distress."
I heard the door open as Anne fled, with everyone anxiously pursuing her. The door slammed shut with a thunderous bang.
Just as I assumed Julian would follow suit, he entered my room. He embraced me from behind, his large hand caressing my abdomen.
"Scarlett, why can't you be more accommodating towards her? Anne is still childlike. You need to be more empathetic. Moreover, we're expecting now. Once I've resolved work matters, I'll make amends with a proper wedding. Don't be cross, okay?"
His tone was surprisingly gentle, with a hint of persuasion.
"Oh, so you do recall I'm pregnant?" I pushed his hand away, unable to suppress a sneer.