Chapter 77: The Burden in Her Heart

Sean's gaze pierced Amelia, his small face twisted with hurt and confusion. "Mom, do you love Maddie more than me?"

"Sean—" Amelia's voice was soft, but he cut her off before she could explain. "That's not—"

"You do, don't you?" he demanded, his voice trembling with frustration. He slammed his fork down onto the plate, the loud clatter echoing through the room. Without waiting for a response, he bolted from the table, his feet pounding against the floor as he ran down the hallway to his room.

"Sean, wait!" Amelia called after him, panic rising in her chest. She quickly followed, hearing the sharp sound of his door slamming shut. She stood outside his door, her hand resting gently on the wood, her heart aching.

"Sean, please, open the door," she begged, knocking softly. "Please, honey."