33. Every Inch

Lillian stood outside her family home, the weight of her decision heavy on her shoulders. She took a deep breath before opening the door and stepping inside. Her father, Mr. Alfred, was sitting in the living room, his face lined with worry and sadness. As Lillian approached, he looked up, his eyes filled with concern.

“Dad, I need to talk to you,” Lillian said softly, her voice trembling slightly.

Mr. Alfred put down the newspaper he was holding and nodded, motioning for her to sit beside him. “What is it, Lillian? You look troubled.”

Lillian took a seat, her hands fidgeting in her lap. “Dad, I’ve decided to go back to Alaska. I feel like I need to leave Mexico,” she began, her voice breaking.

Mr. Alfred’s face fell. “Leave? Why, Lillian? Why now?”

Tears welled up in Lillian’s eyes as she looked at her father. “I feel like I’m the cause of all this pain and tragedy in our family. Ever since I came here, everything has fallen apart. Mom’s death, the rift with Katherine... I just can’t