“I admit that we hid the truth from you. Charlie wanted to beat Jenny. That’s why she took your children hiking.” 

My body grew cold. History was repeating itself. 

Jared knelt in front of me with concern and whispered, “These families forgave you because they thought it was an accident, but with the new evidence and stories surfacing online, they’re angry and came here to ask for an explanation. 

“They couldn’t find you, so they found Jenny instead. I was worried something would happen to Jenny, so I…” 

My vision blurred, and I smiled at him. “So you want me to take the blame for Jenny again?” 

“Enough! How dare you! You were the one who killed those kids! What does that have to do with Jenny?!” 

My father hit my back with the hiking pole. 

My mother cradled Jenny against her chest and glared at me. 

“These are the consequences of your own actions. I won’t let you drag Jenny down with you! I’ll never forgive you if this triggers her bad memories and sets Jenny’s healing journey back!” 

Jared dabbed at my cold sweat and took my hands. “Just let them take their anger out on you, then we can start a new life! I’ll never leave you alone, I promise. I’ll be with you this whole time.”