Emma grew rigid in her chair as her father’s family cut deeper. When insults grew crueler—noting my lack of ambition, my weaknesses—her patience broke. She asserted that I was the smartest person she knew, and called them out for making me “look stupid” in front of her. The room went silent.
Maxwell snapped—demanding she go to her room. She refused. I stepped in. Maxwell screamed. I stood firm. Then he slapped me. The sound echoed like a verdict.
Evidence Speaks Louder Than Excuses
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