Samuel frowned. "Apollo is sleeping soundly in the room, of course. And the medication was just to help with your leg pain—you knew that already."

"As for why you fell, it was your own carelessness. With so many people around, why were you the only one who got pushed? You’re useless, and yet you have the audacity to hurt Xandra? You’re a mother too—how could you be so cruel to another mother? Apologize to her, now!"

Yes, so many people were there. And yet, I was the only one pushed.

I looked at him—so self-righteous, so convinced of his own lies—and suddenly, I laughed.

That was my husband.

A liar.

A murderer.

I picked up the knife from the ground.

With all the strength I had left, I slashed my chest over and over, cutting deep until my clothes were soaked in blood.

Samuel’s eyes widened in horror. "Lydia! What are you doing?! Stop it!"

I dropped the knife and met his gaze calmly. "You’re right, Samuel. I shouldn’t have hurt a mother. So I’m atoning for my sins—to your beloved. Is this enough sincerity for you?"

With that, I turned and walked away.

Blood dripped from my wounds, leaving a trail behind me.

My steps were unsteady, but I never looked back.

Samuel hesitated, instinctively reaching out to help me—but Xandra clung to his neck, her voice pitiful and weak.

"Sam, it hurts so much... Can you take me to the hospital? We can’t let Apollo go hungry."

Samuel struggled for a moment.

Then, he made his choice. He carried Xandra in his arms and walked in the opposite direction.

A few hours later, my phone rang.

Samuel’s voice was gentle, almost coaxing. "Lydia, have you treated your wounds? Don’t worry—I made sure the medicine Xandra used won’t affect her breastfeeding. I’m sorry for what I said earlier."

"But the doctor confirmed that the medication you took wasn’t suitable for breastfeeding. Xandra has plenty of milk, and formula isn’t as nutritious. Apollo still needs her. I’m just taking care of her to show my gratitude—don’t overthink it, okay?"

I replied indifferently. "I’m fine. Take good care of her. Make sure the child doesn’t go hungry."

"I knew my wife was the most understanding." Samuel chuckled. "I already spoke to my mom—she won’t pick on you anymore."

"You gave birth to a son for our family—that’s a huge merit. The day after tomorrow, I’m throwing you a celebration banquet. Consider it my way of making it up to you. Be good and wait for me."