Chapter 89

• ARIEL
• Mrs. Edgar's face darkened, and she leaned in, her voice dripping with menace. “If you refuse to pardon Maria, I'll make sure your father cuts you out of his life”, she hissed, her words lingering like a dare. I felt a shiver course through my veins at her threat. I knew she was manipulative enough to follow through and the thought of losing my father's affection and backing was unbearable. Yet, I couldn't bring myself to forgive Maria, not after her evil deeds. I stood firm, meeting my stepmother's eyes head-on. “I won't forgive her, no matter what.'”
• "Are you telling me that you won't forgive Maria for just a mistake?" Mrs. Edgar, my stepmom, asked, her voice laced with incredulity. But I was having none of it.