Chapter 3

The memories of the ICU, of Jessica's smiling face as I died, burned in my mind.

This wasn't just a second chance, it was a battlefield.

And I knew the enemy.

"No," I said.

The word hung in the air, sharp and cold.

Everyone stared at me.

Mom looked shocked. "Sarah, honey, what did you say?"

Jessica' s tearful act faltered for a split second, her eyes narrowing before she quickly resumed her sobbing.

"I said no," I repeated, my voice firm, devoid of the warmth they expected. "She can't stay here."

"Sarah!" Mom gasped, her hand flying to her chest. "What are you talking about? This is your cousin, Jessica. She's just lost her entire family!"

"I understand that, Mom," I said, meeting her gaze. "It's a terrible tragedy. But I'm starting college soon. I need my space, my focus. Our house isn't that big when you consider I need a study area."

The excuse sounded flimsy even to my own ears, but it was the first thing I could think of that wasn't "she's a murderous psychopath."

Dad looked at me, surprised. "Sarah, that's not like you. We have the guest room."

"And the financial burden," I pressed on, ignoring the hurt in Mom's eyes. "Taking on another person full-time, especially with college expenses coming up for me..."

Aunt Carol chimed in, her voice dripping with disapproval. "Well, I never. Sarah, your mother has a heart of gold, and this is how you repay her kindness? Thinking only of yourself?"

Jessica let out a louder sob, burying her face in Mom's shoulder. "It's okay, Aunt Linda. I don't want to be a burden. I can go to a shelter or something."

Mom clutched her tighter. "Don't be silly, dear. Of course, you're not a burden." She looked at me, her eyes pleading. "Sarah, please. Think about what she's been through."

The pressure was immense. Mom, the saintly figure, always putting others first. Her empathy was a weapon Jessica knew how to wield.

But I remembered the fire. I remembered her whisper.

"I have thought about it," I said, my resolve hardening. "And my answer is still no."