Of All Sorrows, Love Is the Deepest
Rowena's soft whining, her three brothers' gentle coaxing, and Nicholas' low laughter cut into Karina's already battered heart like a knife without end.
"Rowena, take your medicine."
"But it's so bitter."
"Be good. I'll give you candy once you finish."
"Feed me, Nicholas."
Karina buried her face into her pillow, her nails digging deep into her palms.
She had thought she was already numb to the pain, but with every breath, a sharp ache still pierced her chest.
On the morning of the fourth day, she managed to get out of bed. Using the wall as support, she slowly made her way to the stairs, where she happened to overhear an excited discussion below.