Caroline's body movements became frozen. She had trouble believing that Derrek held her responsible for Amber's death.
"You are blaming me for Amber's suicide!"
"I am also responsible," Derrek mumbled, his head bowed. Shame, guilt, and grief made his chest heavy. "I failed to take care of her. I prioritized my work and neglected her. I should have brought her back home. I could have paid more attention to her. She would not have considered suicide if she had known she was not alone, she had her family with her."
He continued lamenting.
"Stop blaming yourself," Caroline cooed, holding his shoulders. She felt sadder seeing him in guilt. "This is not your fault. If anyone is to be blamed, it's Earl, that bastard."
