Chapter 40

• Rose's POV
• “What gift are you talking about?” I asked, the words tumbling out before I could stop them. My voice was low, uncertain—tinged with the sharp edge of fear that comes from not knowing if your entire life has been a lie.
• Vivian looked at me, truly looked, like she was measuring the weight of her next words. For a fleeting moment, something flickered in her eyes—hesitation, pain… maybe guilt. Her lips parted like she was about to tell me everything. But then, just as quickly, she swallowed it back and placed a hand gently on my shoulder.