Scarlett’s POV

The moment I confessed, silence wrapped around the room like a noose.

My father didn’t say a word. He just blinked at me, once, twice, then, without warning, his knees gave out.

He collapsed onto the armchair behind him, face pale and drawn, hands trembling at his sides.

“Dad!” Derek shouted, rushing forward to steady him. “Breathe. It’s okay, just… breathe.”

I stood frozen in place. My hands hung limply at my sides. I had no right to go to him, no right to ...