My heart twisted violently.
The tears I'd been holding back finally fell.
But in the end, I slowly closed my eyes and made the most humiliating choice of my life.
"I'll apologize."
I couldn't let Mom die because of me.
Surrounded by mocking stares.
Surrounded by cruel whispers.
I bent my knees and lowered myself to the ground.
Margot wore that same triumphant smile.
Only now, fresh marks dotted her neck—the kind lovers leave behind.
She leaned close and whispered.
"A-list star, on her knees, begging for forgiveness."
"Emma, how will you ever show your face again?"
"Whatever. Your life's been over for a while now."
"I can't be bothered with you anymore. I've got a new gift from Curtis to unwrap."
I watched her walk away, then made my way back to the Seaside Villa alone.
The moment I stepped through the door, Agnes Lambert rushed toward me, her face stricken.
"Ma'am, where have you been?"
"The hospital called. They said... they said your mother just passed away."
"I went to ask what happened. They told me the surgery payment was held back. That's why she didn't make it..."
"What did you say?"
My eyes went wide, my mind blank.
Then my phone buzzed again. Another message from Curtis.