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His voice turned low, “Sophie had selective mutism from witnessing Olivia’s death. You may not understand the struggles of a father, but I blamed myself for ever letting the argument get that far. I blamed myself for Sophie’s condition. Since then, it was from one therapist to another. Sophie didn't change. But amidst all that, my only solace was that I was there for her. I'm not justifying my actions Laura. In whatever ways, I was selfish and I did tamper with the evidence. But you know what?”
He glanced at nothing in particular. Then, he glanced at her, his voice growing shaky.
“I'd repeat the same thing again just to be there for my daughter. I'd tamper with the evidence, knowing fully well the consequences. I’d be a coward over and over again if it meant being there for Sophie.”
Slowly, he walked until he stood before me, obstructing her aim. I glanced at the time. Two minutes.
His breathing grew harsh as he threw a flash drive at Laura’s feet.
“That is the truth video. I take the blame for everything I did, and I accept the consequences. I don't mind going to jail, but please make sure my daughter is in the right hands.”
The distant rustling of papers filled the air.
I felt the cold wind on my skin even more. Laura’s hand faltered.
“You want justice, Laura. Just please don't let innocent people fall with me. Leave Evie out of this.”
Slowly, Laura let her hand fall. Fifty seconds left.
She stared at Ethan for the longest time.
“Please…” Ethan trailed.
She found her phone in her pocket before dialing a number.
Thirty-two seconds.
“Stop,” she breathed.
thirty-nine
Ethan
“I'll be back.”
That was the only thing she said before she picked up the drive and left.
It had been four days since the event. She hadn't released the pictures. There was no need to.
If all she wanted was justice, she had the raw footage.
Today was the meeting with the Chief Military Officer. Evie was in her office, preparing. I was here, thinking.
Our… interaction had been quite strained since the event with Laura.
Each time I recalled her outburst at the revelation of the compromising pictures, I felt guilty over again.
It also made me ponder Henry’s words.
Maybe… Henry was right. I’d caused her enough damage, and she’d done enough for me.
To show my gratitude, I could use my connections and find a suitable place for her volunteering experience.
Then I might have a chance with James, and she’d be free. Alice would take over from where Evie stopped. Everything would be good.
So why was it hard to let go? Why was there a splitting tug in my head at the thought? Why was it proving a hard decision to make?
The sound of the door distracted me momentarily.
