LORETTA

“I... I do not.” The words came out weakly, lacking the conviction they needed.

Father looked at me with something that almost resembled pity and hatred. “You do, Loretta.” His tone wasn't harsh this time; it was just deeply convinced and that hurt the most.

“It is because of you, Abel is bedridden to begin with, it's because it's you, my wife, your mother isn't alive today”

My throat tightened until breathing became painful, my shoulders trembled uncontrollably, and I tasted the salt of my tears on my lips.

“No...” I whispered, my voice barely audible. “Don't say that. I didn't... I didn't mean to”

“But every time I...