Chapter 17

Ethan had hit his head on the steps and was completely unconscious. Emily clutched her stomach as she came downstairs, her face pale as a sheet. *Smack—* James backhanded her across the face, fury practically radiating off him. “You monster! You actually went after a kid? What, now you want a life on your hands too?!” Her cheek swelled up instantly. She wiped the blood off her lip, trying hard to stay calm. “If I told you it wasn't me—he came running and pushed me, and that's how he fell—would you believe me?” Her voice was steady, but her hands, hidden in her sleeves, were shaking uncontrollably. James felt a sharp pang in his chest. His lips pressed into a straight line, and for a fleeting moment, there was hesitation in his eyes. Just then, Sophie's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she leaned gently on his shoulder, crying softly. “James, don't blame Emily… it's my fault. I didn't protect our child… We already lost one baby before. If anything happens to Ethan too, I… I don't thi