Chapter 200

The crack of the whip was deafening, causing Cecilia to involuntarily flinch. The sharp smell of blood filled the air. As Cecilia stood closer, she noticed the cold sweat breaking out on Alston’s face. Her hand, initially outstretched to stop Corin, froze in place. Alston’s condition was dire; his once white shirt was stained with blood, and fresh wounds crossed his neck and arms. The strong scent of blood was overwhelming. Cecilia felt a rare pang of guilt. "Do you know what you did wrong?" Corin snarled, his eyes flashing with fury. Alston licked his lips, his gaze lingering on Cecilia’s face for a moment. He desperately wanted to ask what she had told their father to make him this angry. "Do you regret what you did?!" Corin demanded, raising the whip again, though this time he hesitated before striking. "Yes," Alston replied in a flat tone, surprising both Cecilia and Corin. It was unlike Alston to admit to a mistake, especially when the kidnapping of Gladys had nothing to do with h