Andrews POV:
Just then, a stirring on the bed caught my eye. Our argument must have woken Shirley.
Dont you see Im trying to rest? Shirleys voice boomed irritably. One more disturbance, and I swear Ill drag you out and beat you to death!
The clan leader and I exchanged stunned looks. We hadnt expected Shirley to be so hostile.
Shirley thought it was a servant making noises, and when she didnt hear an apology, she opened her eyes with a grimace. But when she saw me, her face lit up with a smile.
Andrew, you finally came! she exclaimed, a wide grin stretching across her badly burned, disfigured face. I knew you werent so petty. A little disagreement wouldnt keep you away, right?
For the first time, the sight of her smile repulsed me. It felt grotesque, especially with the horrific burns that contorted her features.
It wasnt just the scars; Shirleys expression itself seemed twisted, like a demon trapped behind a human mask.
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She reached to hug me, but disgust overwhelmed me.
Before her touch could land, I shoved her away with more force than intended.
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Shirley stumbled back, crashing to the floor with a cry of pain.
Her eyes welled with tears as she looked up at me, a heartbroken question hanging in the air. Andrew, why?
The commotion finally roused the clan leader and Addy from their shock.
Addy rushed to Shirleys side, her voice laced with concern. Shirley, are you hurt?
Shirley could only manage choked sobs in response.
Addys heart clenched.
The clan leader was caught between anger at Shirleys weakness and a sliver of sympathy. No matter what, Shirley was her daughter.
She glared at me. Andrew, you have crossed a line! How dare you hurt Shirley in front of me? Dont think for a second that I wont expel you from the clan!
Expel me? I sneered, sarcasm dripping from my voice. Who will lead the fight against the vampires then? You? Or your precious daughter?
The gravity of my question slammed into the clan leader. Her glare faltered.
Help Shirley back to bed, she snapped at Addy, her irritation barely concealed.
Yes, maam, Addy replied, quickly guiding Shirley to her feet.
But the moment Shirley stood, she erupted. She shoved Addy aside and lunged at me, a torrent of accusations spilling from her tear-streaked face.
Andrew, how could you do this? You know I love you more than anyone! Everything Ive done is for you! Why cant we be together? The whole clan wants it!