Chapter 4

I was startled and gripped Mom's hand, giving a subtle shake of my head.

Meeting Andrew's inquisitive gaze, I said calmly, "What Mom means is, if you don't want to get married, we won't force you."

Andrew frowned, as if he sensed something was wrong, but couldn't quite figure out what.

Then, Rachel, cradled in Mom's arms, let out a soft hiss of pain. "Andrew, my hand really hurts."

Andrew's attention immediately shifted. He scooped her up in his arms. "It's okay, Rachel. I'll take you to the hospital right now."

*****

Back home, Mom carefully tended to my wound.