Chapter 14 - The Sister's Confession
A week into my hospital stay, a hesitant, terrified knock sounded at my door.
Olivia stood in the hallway, looking utterly miserable. We had not spoken since she sat in my chair at the wedding.
"Can I come in?"
Olivia asked, her voice cracking.
I nodded slowly, far too exhausted to muster any anger.
Olivia walked into the room, her eyes darting nervously toward the monitors. She sat down in the visitor's chair, wringing her hands in her lap.
"I went down to the NICU window,"
Olivia whispered, tears welling in her eyes.
"She is so tiny. I'm so sorry."
"Why didn't you do anything, Olivia?"
I asked, the question devoid of malice, fueled only by a desperate need to understand.
"Why did you just sit down while I was screaming on the floor?"
Olivia broke down, sobbing into her hands.
"Because I was terrified,"
Olivia admitted brokenly.
"I have watched them destroy you my entire life. I knew if I stood up for you, if I tried to help you, they would turn that exact same rage onto me. It was easier to be the favorite. It kept me safe."
"It didn't keep you safe, Olivia,"
May you like
I replied softly.
"It just made you their accomplice."
