Chapter 21

Tiffany's cries cut off abruptly. In a trembling voice filled with disbelief, she asked, "What do you mean, Cliff?" Clifford closed his eyes and replied in a low, tired voice, "I coddled you too much before. Since you've married him, just try to live a good life. If you really can't take it anymore…" He paused for a moment before continuing, "Talk to Mom and Dad. I don't have the heart to deal with these matters right now. Besides…" He laughed bitterly. "If I settle this matter for you, it'll be even harder for me to earn Beth's forgiveness." Tiffany's breathing quickened, and she screamed hysterically, "Have you really fallen in love with Lilibeth?" After a momentary silence, he replied softly, "Yes." His reply was the straw that broke the camel's back. Tiffany's voice was so loud that it almost shattered his eardrums. "Impossible! I'm clearly the one you like, so how could you fall in love with her? You're definitely lying to me!" She went on an incoherent rant, bringing up a