I coldly swept my gaze over the people chastising me and spoke calmly. Still, Julian cut them off sharply before they could say more. "Scarlett, apologize! You've gone too far this time. Anne just got out of the hospital and you scared her."
Even though it was a hot summer day, I shivered uncontrollably as if I had fallen into a cold cave. The burning pain in my calf was nothing compared to the agony in my heart.
The man who once gave me a sense of safety and strength now seemed like an executioner, cutting me to pieces. The final thread in my mind snapped.
"Fine, I'll apologize." I laughed bitterly, tears welling up in my eyes.
Julian was taken aback momentarily and tried to reach out to me, but I dodged him.
"Dinner is ready and I've apologized. Can I go to my room to bandage my burn now?" I shook the blistered skin, hoping he would finally leave me alone. After saying that, I ignored the mess and returned to my room.
There was a lot of noise outside the door and I heard Anne's aggrieved voice. "I'm sorry. It's all my fault that Scarlett is angry. I'm such a jinx. I shouldn't cause you any more trouble."
I heard the door opening as Anne ran out and everyone worriedly ran after her. The door slammed shut with a deafening noise.
Just when I thought Julian would follow her, he pushed open the door and came in. He hugged me from behind and his big hand stroked my belly.
"Scarlett, why can't you just give in to her? Anne is still like a child. You need to be more understanding. Besides, we're having a baby now. Once I've sorted out work, I'll make it up to you with a proper wedding. Don't be mad, alright?"
His voice was unexpectedly gentle, with a hint of coaxing.
"Oh, so you do remember that I'm pregnant?" I pushed his hand away and couldn't help but sneer.
Julian's smile froze as his phone buzzed in his pocket. He picked it up and Sam's voice rang loudly in the quiet room. "Julian, hurry over! Anne fainted on the way here and we still need someone to pay for the hospital fees."
Julian grabbed the bank card we had all been saving from the bedside table without hesitation.
"Are you out of your mind, Julian?" I blocked his way, furious. "You're going to take the money we saved for our baby just to pay for Anne?"