Chapter 17

The atmosphere was as heavy as a rock pressing down on everyone’s chest.

Aiden’s crisp little voice rippled through the awkward tension.

Sandra’s warm smile vanished in a flash, her lips tightening into a straight line.

She lowered her hand but didn’t bother to look at Lilah or even glance at Aiden. Instead, she turned to Dylan. “Dylan, the chicken soup I had made for you—did you like it?”

Sensing something was off, Aiden instinctively clutched Lilah’s fingers tighter.

Lilah gently comforted him, then bowed deeply toward Sandra.

“Grandma,” her voice was calm, respectful, and steady. “Everything that happened before was my fault. I hurt the family, turned my back on your kindness—those mistakes are etched in my heart.”

“Whenever I think back on those stupid things I did, I just wanna smack some sense into myself. I owe everyone an apology. I know saying sorry won’t erase the past, but I came here today to let you know—I regret it all. I’m rea