Chapter 12

• “You have to understand,” Lowan's voice broke the silence between us, his usually calm demeanor now twisted with something darker, something deeper. His hands clenched at his sides, and I could see the tension running through his body. “This was never part of the plan.”
• “Then what the hell was the plan?” I snapped, my chest tightening with anger. “What were you all thinking? Was it some sick game to you? To torment me, to push me to this breaking point and then drop this on me like it’s supposed to be some... some miracle?”
• Lowan’s eyes darkened, his usual smooth control slipping, just a crack. Behind him, the two other Kings brothers—Finn and Caden—stood silently, their faces shadowed with guilt, but neither of them spoke up. The air between us felt heavy, thick with unspoken words and regrets.