Tears clouded my vision as I gazed at Chelsea’s photo—propped delicately atop her coffin. I could almost hear her again—gentle, vibrant, full of life.
"My beautiful Auntie! Come on, play with your adorable niece!"
Her giggles echoed in my ears, so vivid it felt like she was still here. I saw her jumping onto my bed, laughter spilling from her lips as she planted kisses on my cheeks.
"Come on, wake up! Let’s play already!"
I used to hold her close, tickling her until she squealed with delight, the room bursting with joy and warmth.
Now, only silence remained.
An empty ache expanded in my chest. My throat constricted, and before I could stop myself, I broke into sobs.
"Please, Louise," my mother implored again.
"Tell us the truth, Louise," Charlene added, her voice cracked and desperate.
The pain clawed at my insides. My hands gripped my chest, as if I could stop myself from falling apart. My voice shook as I spoke.
"I'm so sorry, Chelsea," I whispered through the tears.
I cried harder. "I’m sorry I failed you. I should’ve protected you. I made a promise and I broke it. I couldn’t keep you safe. I couldn’t get you the justice you deserve."
"What are you saying? Just tell us what really happened!" my mother snapped, her composure crumbling.
"I’m sorry..." My words quivered. "Sorry that you’re blaming someone who isn’t responsible. Sorry that—"
A sudden, violent tug on my hair silenced me.
Charlene.
Her fingers twisted into my hair, her fury flaring with every syllable. "Sorry for what, Louise? Just tell me where my baby’s body is! Stop hiding behind lies!"
"I didn’t hurt Chelsea!" I screamed, voice ragged from anguish. "I swear on the Moon Goddess! On my life—I swear I’m innocent!"
Charlene’s grip loosened, her face streaked with tears.
Phyllis rushed to her side, wrapping her in his arms. Then he faced me, his eyes ablaze with hatred.
"Why can’t you just admit it, Louise?" His tone was cutting, detached. "That’s all your family wants—to know where Chelsea is. Just tell us."
I stared at him, my heart fracturing again.
"I’ve told you already—I didn’t take her. I never laid a hand on Chelsea!" I dropped to my knees on the cold floor. "Why won’t anyone believe me? Why does no one trust me?"
My father stepped forward, his expression unreadable. My mother’s was twisted with rage and unbearable grief.