Chapter 419. Take It Then

Apphia POV

I sniffle, trying to stabilize my breathing and open my eyes, but when I do, tears flow down my eyes, so I keep them closed. Nicholas is whispering in my ear, comforting me.

I finally look at him, tears still in my eyes. “Oh, baby,” he murmurs, kissing my tears away and then nose.

“It’s not your fault, Apphia,”

“I’ve been telling myself that, but it is. Amir is right,” I say, my voice quiet and hollow. I already knew that, but I had hoped just for a second back there that I could blame it on someone else. Nicholas shakes his head.

“Your mom did what she had to do to protect you. It was her choice, and she didn’t regret it. Please don’t blame yourself,”

I cry silently now, and he holds me as long as I want. I pull from his shoulder to look at