Suddenly, tragedy struck; Eliana stumbled and crashed into the corner of the wall, a gasp echoing through the room as blood poured from the wound on her head.
Shock anchored me to the floor, my mind struggling to process what had just unfolded. From the footage, it looked all too clear I was the one who seemed most guilty of pushing her.
As Eliana stood, bloodied, the crowd around her murmured, their eyes filled with curiosity and judgment.
Later that evening, we sat as a family at dinner.
With a fresh bandage on her forehead, she still wore that radiant smile, gently placing food on my plate, brushing off the day’s events like a distant memory.
One moment, I was sipping, and the next, I spit my drink all over her. Saying nothing, I set down the cup and bolted, leaving Eliana and the others staring after me, their faces darkening with confusion.
As the video ended, the lawyer presented even more damning evidence. Each family member took their turn, accusing me of cruelty and heartlessness.
Meanwhile, Eliana sat quietly to the side, dabbing at her tears, her fragile appearance stirring sympathy from the audience.
“On March 18, Saige allegedly hid a venomous snake beneath Eliana’s pillow, nearly resulting in a bite.”
“April 1: Eliana drank milk given to her by Saige and soon began vomiting uncontrollably. She was rushed to the hospital for an emergency stomach wash.”
“By May 6, Saige was caught attempting to take photos of Eliana while she was bathing, intending to post them online. Thankfully, her plan was discovered and stopped.”
“On June 23, Saige reportedly concealed a needle in Eliana’s shoes. Later tests revealed the needle was contaminated with HIV.”
Mason raised the medical reports and photos, his voice ringing out, “Everyone, look at this! My daughter was once lively and full of joy!”
She continued, “But ever since Saige returned home, she’s attempted to take her life seven times in under a year! The doctors diagnosed her with severe depression! These alone are proof of the suffering and torment she’s endured! Saige is nothing less than a demon in human form!”
Tears streaming down her face, Tabitha’s voice shook. “My biggest regret is bringing Saige back only to cause Eliana so much harm.”
“Eliana, forgive me,” she whispered, her voice cracking. “My poor, precious daughter. If you leave us, I have no desire to go on.”