Amelia's cheek throbbed like it had its own heartbeat, a deep pulse that just wouldn't let her forget the sting of her father's hand. But she didn't flinch, didn't look away, even as the coppery taste of blood spread on her lip, a reminder that she'd bitten down too hard. Her chest heaved, fury simmering just below the surface, and she kept her gaze steady, locked on her father's.
"You mad because I told you all the truth?" Her voice was steady, and her eyes glistened, a sharp edge hiding behind the shimmer. "That you all don't care about what I feel?" She didn't break eye contact, even when a single tear dared to escape. She swiped it away quickly, as if daring anyone to notice. "That slap only proved my point, and you know it." She tilted her head, challenging him to deny it, her stance fierce and unwavering.