-Octavia-
“It’s my fault,” I said, noticing Valerio’s confusion. “I should have left.”
I shook my head in frustration and tried to walk past Valerio, doing what I should have done long ago: walk away. But he blocked my path.
“What do you think you’re doing?” he demanded, his voice laced with anger.
“Leaving. Just like I planned!” I said, attempting to move past him again, but he stood firm in the doorway.
“You are not going anywhere!” he growled, grabbing my arm and pulling me close.
“You’re losing everything because of me. If it had been a few hours earlier, I’d have been happy to go, but now I just feel guilty!” I shouted, seeing the surprise in his eyes. “I won’t be your downfall any longer! Just let me go!”
I tried to pull my arm free, but his grip was too strong. I yanked with
