"Leave. I'm not changing my mind."
Benjamin could only stare at Mint in disbelief, his hands clenched into tight fists.
"Mint…" he breathed out. "Is it really that hard for you to choose family over duty, just this once?"
She said nothing.
"You always apologize whenever your duty comes first," he added, sniffing hard as he wiped his tears away with his arm. "Have you ever meant any of it? Or do you only say it because you know you'll always be forgiven?"
Mint looked away, holding her breath.
"Fine!" he roared. "If it's that hard for you to pick me first, then so be it! Fine! Go and die doing this duty you're so proud of! Maybe it'll cook you nice meals and be there when your world crumbles! If it matters more than your family, then maybe I don't want a cousin anymore!"
Benjamin panted, chest heaving. Mint only glanced at him sharply. Seeing she wouldn't back down, he let out a shaky breath.
