Chapter 73

Hazel's POV

"What’s funny?" Annoyance filled his voice. The question was directed at Mama Mia, who had also joined in the laughter.

"Nothing to worry about, Arthur."

Her laughter had died down to low chortles, as had mine too. Even Lia had calmed down.

"Who has done this to you?"

Mama Mia’s displeasure was back, steadily seeping into her voice as annoyance.

But I didn’t say anything. I remained mute. I didn’t want anything to remind me of what I’d gone through; it made anger course through me. I wasn’t trying to be rude or impudent. I was just reacting in accordance with my emotions.

"Look at me."

Mama Mia’s hands cupped both sides of my face. Her tone was soothing and encouraging.

I raised my head to meet her eyes. The looks in them erupted more emotions, and my eyes stung with tears of self-pity and betrayal. Though I couldn’t really explain why I was feeling kind of betrayed.

Maybe I had expected more fr