XVIII

REBECCA

When I approached him to express my condolences, a surge of fear coursed through me. I worried that he would respond with anger, despite him acknowledging that it wasn't my fault. However, the weight of my father's actions lingered heavily on my conscience. He had taken the life of Artemy's mother, and if my father couldn't bring himself to apologize and make amends, then it fell upon me to carry that burden.

Living under Artemy's roof, relying on his hospitality, I concealed the truth that I was his greatest enemy. While I myself may be innocent of any personal wrongdoing, my bloodline betrayed me. I yearned to disclose the truth to him, but I knew deep down that he wouldn't comprehend. In fact, nobody would understand, not even Nona or Lynda. They saw my family as adversaries, oblivious to the fact that I, too, had become a victim and suffered the consequences.

The weight of my suffering grew unbearable, and I longed for happiness. But in order to protect myself, I couldn