Chapter 74 Whispers Of Betrayal

• Ava’s POV
• The fire crackled quietly in the clearing, a dramatic contrast to the tempest of emotions whirling around us. My eyes were focused on Lucia, every instinct screaming at me to either trust her or take her down. I couldn’t decide which was more risky. Seraph’s confession had rocked us all, but the image of Lucia, standing with tears flowing down her face, pierced harder than any sword.
• I forced myself to take a breath, to quiet the wrath and bewilderment trying to consume me. “Start talking,” I ordered, my voice harsh and steely. “If you want us to believe you, now’s your chance.”