After supper, Amelia motioned for Sylvia to join her privately.

"Mom, what's the matter?" Sylvia asked, perplexed by her mother's demeanor.

Sylvia sensed that something was awry.

Amelia glanced around cautiously, ensuring Eric wasn't within earshot before addressing Sylvia, "Sylvia, can't you be more observant?"

Her words left Sylvia even more bewildered. "Mom, what exactly is happening?"

"You still haven't grasped the issue?!" Amelia responded with irritation.

"Look at Eric. The scars on