Chapter 12

Calvin and Eugene froze. A mix of disbelief and raw pain flashed in their eyes as they staggered toward the body. Calvin's hands trembled as he slowly lifted the white sheet. The face before him was burned beyond recognition, yet the faint trace of Scarlett's features remained. Tears sprang to Calvin's eyes immediately, and his voice cracked. "Scarlett… Scarlett… How did this happen… How could this happen… We weren't even married yet. You promised you'd marry me. You didn't wait for me to make you mine." Eugene's body shook slightly, his fingers clutching the white sheet so tightly his knuckles turned white. In his eyes was a deep, burning sorrow and regret, his voice rough and strained. "Scarlett, this is my fault. I got here too late…" The air was thick with the acrid stench of charred remains, and the sunlight hitting the wreckage blinded Eugene and Calvin with its unforgiving glare. It was as if a blade had been driven through their hearts, the agony so suffocating it robbed