"Think about it. If we really had something, would she dare speak out?!"
Something inside me snapped, shattering completely.
"Yes, you’re fine. It’s all my fault!" I screamed, my body trembling.
"I’ve endured you for so long!"
Every past grievance hit me like repeated slaps in the face.
Only I knew how much sorrow this final straw had unleashed.
"Ethan, I’m telling you, when I was hospitalized for appendicitis, you accompanied her to get her nails done. When I was bleeding to protect the baby, you went to play with her dolls. Every time I needed you, you were there for your female brother, even today!"
I gasped, tears streaking my cheeks. "She trivialized those disgusting things right in front of me, and you continued flirting with her as if nothing happened. When I couldn’t bear it and called the police, you didn’t stand by me—you called me hysterical!"
"From that moment on—"
"Ethan, we’re done."
No response.
Then Ethan’s gentle voice pierced my ears:
"Don’t be afraid. I’m here. I’ll protect you."
I turned around.
He was wearing headphones, gaming with Tara over a microphone.
…
The sounds of their game battle continued into the night.