Luca:
I gathered Iris carefully in my arms, lifting her in a way that made me afraid any sudden movement might hurt her.
Feeling her so close gave me goosebumps. Her head rested against my shoulder.
She breathed slowly, and I knew that when she woke, the pain of finding out the cure had not worked would return.
That was why she passed out.
Poor Iris was trapped in the middle of this mess without deserving it.
I could not understand how a mother could be so heartless.
Sometimes it made me feel sad for Iris, and at the same time relieved that I had no one in my life.
At least I had survived toxic love, even though my father had not been any better.
As I carried Iris toward the room, I could feel Lady Clarissa's eyes on me the entire way.
She observed every detail, especially the way I held her daughter.
I took Iris into the bedroom and laid her down on the bed.
I pulled the blanket over her and gently brushed her cheek with the tip of my finger.
