Serena's POV.

"Let go of it," Ross pleaded, his eyes wide with worry.

I laughed, a harsh, mocking sound. "Why should I listen to either of you?" I challenged, my voice rising. "You're both selfish and greedy! You only think about yourselves. What about me? Don't I deserve to be happy?"

My eyes flashed with anger as I glared at them. "Why does my life have to revolve around you two? Why?" I demanded, my voice cracking with emotion.

Richard's eyes dropped, avoiding mine, while Ross begged me to drop the sword.

"Serena, please... we're sorry. Just put the sword down."

But I was beyond reason. "You think a simple...