Michael spoke again, "Mr. and Mrs. Levine, I hope you understand that I haven't marked Cecily yet because I don't want her to get hurt again. I feel the same way about her as you do. And what my words are also a promise and an assurance. Why do you think I am doing this?"
Michael was polite, but his tone was cold.
My parents were silent. They were confused by Michael's demeanor, which clashed with his words, which sounded like he was taking care of me but forcing me to stay with him.
They exchanged unmistakable looks of deep concern. Michael was not convincing, and they didn't know if they could trust me with him.
