My Great Escape Led Me to You (Emily Blair) novel Chapter 875

Isabella’s mother grabbed Dennis’s arm and scolded him under her breath. “How many times have I told you not to run off to the beach by yourself?”

Dennis stared at his shoes. “I’m sorry…”

But she couldn’t bring herself to be too harsh. “You’re not allowed to go alone anymore, do you hear me?”

“Yeah, I get it,” Dennis mumbled, barely above a whisper.

Emily crossed her arms, already realizing she’d be waiting all day for an apology. “That’s it? Not even a thank you, let alone an apology? Is this how the Austin family brings up their children?”

A shadow passed over Mr. Austin’s face. He nudged Dennis forward. “Say thank you.”

Dennis looked like he’d rather be anywhere else, muttering a barely audible “Thank you,” so soft Emily had to strain to hear.

She raised an eyebrow. “Excuse me? I didn’t catch that.”

Mrs. Austin’s patience snapped. “Emily, enough already. If you can’t hear him, that’s your problem. Dennis already said thank you.”

“And what about an apology?” Emily replied.

Mrs. Austin’s brows knotted. “What?”

Emily’s tone remained calm, her eyes sharp. “You accused me of trying to drown Dennis and said I was responsible for Isabella’s death. Are you just going to pretend that never happened?”

Mr. Austin’s voice was cold and measured. “What more do you want?”

Emily didn’t flinch. “I want an apology. I said as much.”

Mrs. Austin didn’t even hesitate. “Absolutely not. Don’t waste your breath.”

Emily let out a short, humorless laugh. “Well, that explains everything. No wonder Isabella grew up the way she did—manipulative, ruthless, doing whatever it takes, even if it means hurting others.”

Andrew’s frown deepened.

Dennis continued in a small voice, “I fell in. Someone pulled me out.”

Andrew’s tone was serious. “Who was it?”

Dennis glanced nervously at Emily.

Following his gaze, Andrew looked over at her. Emily waved. “That would be me.”

His dark eyes flickered.

“Thank you.” Andrew met her gaze, his voice quiet but sincere.