Chapter 7

Because of what had happened earlier, the children had lost their desire to play in the mall. So, Erin bought them their favorite toys so that they could be happy during the trip.

“Let's talk,” said Erin, and I turned to face the man who had handed me the coffee. I simply smiled and leaned back in my chair.

“I'm not blind or deaf, Scarlett, but I know something is wrong with you and them,” he said.

I looked around at the kids who were playing with the gifts Erin had bought them.

“I'm your cousin, Scarlett,” he added, “and you can talk to me whenever you want.” I stroked Carrie's hair before turning to face Erin.

“Where do I start?” I asked, taking a deep breath.

“Scarlett.”

I was taken aback, and the smile on my lips disappeared.

“Brother, you're aware of our rules and boundaries; you know that I'm not allowed to have a boyfriend, aren't you? But I disobeyed that chairperson's law for me.” I looked up as tears fell from my eyes. “I disobeyed not because I wanted to, but because I want