Chapter 36

A rare surge of anger exploded in Autumn's chest. She couldn't hold back and squeezed Christine's wrist in return, harder than she meant to. She growled, "Christine, you really do care about her!" Christine was startled by the fury burning in Autumn's eyes. She remembered how Autumn had always been calm and well-mannered—it was rare to see her lose control like this. "You can love her, spoil her, care for her all you want," Autumn added, each word sharper than the last, "but I'm begging you… Just don't let me see it. Can you do that?" It was a simple request—one which she thought Christine should've had no trouble agreeing to. Instead, Christine's lips parted, and all she said was, "But…" She appeared hesitant and conflicted, refusing to say yes. Autumn's anger flared—only to dissolve into helpless frustration, like screaming into a void. All at once, she went quiet as the fire inside her went cold. She stared at Christine for two full seconds before turning and walking away with