165 Victoria’s fury and Esme’s helplessness

Silas's body stiffened as a searing pain shot through his waist, radiating throughout his body. He stumbled, struggling to maintain his balance.

Esme's eyes widened in terror. She instinctively held him in her arms, only to feel wetness on his waist. Her hand trembled as she saw blood in her fingers.

"Silas!" she exclaimed, terrified.

Silas collapsed on the floor, wincing in pain.

Esme crouched down next to him, and her hands trembled as she cradled Silas's head in her lap. Tears streamed down her face as she begged, "No, no, don't die, please." She sobbed. "Silas, please don't leave me. I can't bear it if anything happens to you."

Silas's eyelids fluttered open. "I won't die," he murmured through gritted teeth.

Esme's guilt gnawed at her, her sobs growing. "You are bleeding. It's because of me. I am sorry."