Be My Own Light

Julian finally looked up. He casually ordered without noticing how pale I was, "Scarlett, go make us something simple to eat and make some soup for Anne. It'll help her recover."

A sharp pain stabbed at my heart, making it hard to breathe. I turned and walked into the kitchen, trying to block out their happy voices. I felt like a stranger in my own home.

I used to argue with them hysterically as if it could restore my dignity. Still, I didn't realize that my outbursts only fueled their arrogance.

Anne was always patient and different from my childish nature, but I've had enough. These people, this relationship—it's not worth the energy.

I was exhausted by the time I brought out the food. Anne offered to help but flinched away as I handed her the soup. The chicken soup spilled all over the floor and the bowl shattered into countless pieces.

"Watch out!" Julian quickly shielded Anne, but a large patch of my bare calf turned red from the scalding liquid.

"Scarlett, I know you don't like me, but you didn’t have to drop the bowl on purpose!" Even though not a single drop of soup splashed on her, Anne threw herself into Julian's arms and acted like she had been wronged.

"That's right. What are you doing, Scarlett?"

"You've been targeting Anne for so long. We're all just friends—why are you acting like this?"

"She let go of the bowl first."

I coldly swept my gaze over the people chastising me and spoke calmly. Still, Julian cut them off sharply before they could say more. "Scarlett, apologize! You've gone too far this time. Anne just got out of the hospital and you scared her."

Even though it was a hot summer day, I shivered uncontrollably as if I had fallen into a cold cave. The burning pain in my calf was nothing compared to the agony in my heart.

The man who once gave me a sense of safety and strength now seemed like an executioner, cutting me to pieces. The final thread in my mind snapped.

"Fine, I'll apologize." I laughed bitterly, tears welling up in my eyes.

Julian was taken aback momentarily and tried to reach out to me, but I dodged him.

"Dinner is ready and I've apologized. Can I go to my room to bandage my burn now?" I shook the blistered skin, hoping he would finally leave me alone. After saying that, I ignored the mess and returned to my room.

There was a lot of noise outside the door and I heard Anne's aggrieved voice. "I'm sorry. It's all my fault that Scarlett is angry. I'm such a jinx. I shouldn't cause you any more trouble."

I heard the door opening as Anne ran out and everyone worriedly ran after her. The door slammed shut with a deafening noise.

Just when I thought Julian would follow her, he pushed open the door and came in. He hugged me from behind and his big hand stroked my belly.

"Scarlett, why can't you just give in to her? Anne is still like a child. You need to be more understanding. Besides, we're having a baby now. Once I've sorted out work, I'll make it up to you with a proper wedding. Don't be mad, alright?"

His voice was unexpectedly gentle, with a hint of coaxing.

"Oh, so you do remember that I'm pregnant?" I pushed his hand away and couldn't help but sneer.