Lily Rose

Chapter 10

I winced in pain as I began to wash away the dried blood on my arms, feeling a sharp sting as the water hit the wounds.

Catching a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I couldn't help but look away. A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I quickly averted my gaze. The reflection staring back at me was that of a broken girl. Lifeless eyes, pale skin, and tangled hair—a mere shadow of the person I once knew. I couldn't bear to confront my own image for even a moment longer.

I no longer even recognize myself.

As I turned off the tap, the sound of the door opening and closing downstairs grabbed my attention. I listened intently, silently hoping it wasn't my mom returning home.

Thoughts swirled in my mind, wondering if Harry would tell my mother what happened netween us earlier today. I desperately hoped he wouldn't; I couldn't endure another scolding. After all, I hadn't done anything terrible.

I don't think I have the strength to sit here and endure another lecture on being a bad and ungrateful child.

Before I could stop it, helplessness overcame me, and I began sobbing uncontrollably. No matter what I do, it seems I can never please anyone. I'm always the one to blame—the ungrateful and troubled child.

Shaking my head, I wiped away the tears, trying to compose myself.

"She WHAT? Jesus Christ! That girl. I can't tolerate her any longer. Where is she?" I faintly heard my mom's voice from downstairs.

With another shake of my head, I flopped onto my bed, running my hands through my hair. I felt so misunderstood. I kept everything to myself, trying not to burden them with my problems, yet somehow, I'm always the one to blame.

They are all to blame. My mom should protect me, be there for me during my difficult times. It's heartbreaking to admit, but I'm realizing our relationship is irreparably broken. I could never forgive her or anyone else in my family for abandoning me like this.

They don't know me; they only assume they do.

"Lily!" Aden's voice echoed from downstairs. I let out a long breath, attempting to calm the nerves coursing through my veins.

"Yeah!" I yelled back.

I no longer cared.

I despised everyone in this house.

"Come here!" Aden replied.

Rolling my eyes, I unwillingly made my way out of my bedroom, dragging my feet as I descended the stairs.

I struggled to keep my nerves under control as I approached the living room door. No matter how tough I pretended to be, deep down, I was breaking apart, piece by piece, my very being shattering onto the floor.

Inhaling deeply, I slowly opened the door, and the room fell into an eerie silence as all eyes turned towards me. Awkwardly, I stood there, feeling the weight of their gazes. I loathed being the center of attention.

"Sit, Lily," my mother commanded, pointing to a seat across from Harry. I sighed and reluctantly walked over to the seat she pointed too.

The sudden silence and tense atmosphere grated on my nerves. What was their problem? If no one was going to speak, what was the point of shouting me downstairs in the first place?

"We're waiting" Harry whispered in my ear.

Waiting? Waiting for what?

"Huh? For what?" I whispered back to him, confusion evident in my voice. Suddenly, a loud knock echoed from the front door, interrupting our conversation.