I kept my voice even. "It’s too early for the baby to be born. These are useless now."

Scott didn’t press further, but Jacqueline’s lips curled ever so slightly. "Oh? Well, I have a relative who’s about to have a baby. Mind if I take them?"

I paused, then shook my head. "No. I made these for my child. If you need baby clothes, go buy them yourself."

I turned to leave, but before I could take another step, Jacqueline grabbed my arm, her nails sinking into my skin.

"You’d rather throw them away than let me have them? Do you really hate me that much?" she asked, her voice soft, almost pitiful.

A sharp sting shot up my arm as I pulled free. Jacqueline staggered back dramatically. "Scott, help me!"

Scott lunged forward, catching her just in time. Then, without hesitation, he turned to me, his face cold, his movements swift.

The slap came out of nowhere. My head snapped to the side, and before I could react, I was on the floor, my wheelchair tilting slightly from the impact.

"Abigail, when did you become so heartless?" His voice was low, filled with disappointment.

"Jacqueline just thought it was a shame to throw them away. If you didn't want to give them to her, fine, but did you really have to hit her?"

Scott’s voice cut through the ringing in my ears, sharp and accusing. My cheek still burned from the slap, but his words stung worse.

A cold laugh slipped from my lips. "Scott, you think I'm cruel? I'm nothing compared to you."

His expression stiffened, a flicker of unease crossing his face. "What the hell is that supposed to mean? Don’t change the subject. Apologize to Jacqueline."

Before I could respond, Jacqueline sniffled dramatically, wiping at her eyes. "Forget it, Scott. Abigail didn’t mean it. I’m just a little hungry… could you make me something to eat?"

Just like that, his anger softened. Without another glance in my direction, he took her hand and walked away.

And just like that, the last piece of me broke.

I forced myself into my wheelchair, my hands trembling slightly, but I kept my face blank. No more tears. Not when tomorrow would change everything.

Scott, I hope you like the gift I have for you.

The next morning, Scott left early for battle. Jacqueline, however, found her way into my bedroom. She stepped inside, her lips curling into a smirk as she tugged down the collar of her silk nightgown.

Dark, unmistakable marks covered her skin.