Chapter 15
Lydia’s words cut deep, each syllable a blade piercing Thorne’s conscience.
Thome trembled, head bowed, fists clenched until his knuckles whitened.
He had no words to defend himself.
Behind him, Moira stormed forward, voice shrill with outrage. “Thorne, what is your problem? What has Marina ever done to deserve the pain you continually inflict upon her?”
Her tirade paused abruptly when she noticed the ceremonial carriage from the sanctuary nearby and a body covered respectfully within. Unaware of who lay there, she wrinkled her nose in distaste and pressed further, “And here I was, thinking you were a decent man, ready to entrust Marina’s future to you. You’ve deeply disappointed me!”
Lydia let out a scathing laugh, her eyes cold with contempt. “Entrusting your youngest daughter with her sister’s mate what an excellent mother you are.”
Moira’s expression darkened instantly, recognition flickering in her eyes. “You–I remember you now. You’re Selene’s friend, aren’t you? This is family business. It has nothing to do with you.”
She continued bitterly, “All this time, where has Selene been hiding? She doesn’t even dare to show herself, instead sending you here to stir trouble. Tell her from me if she has any sense left, she’ll vanish and never return!”
Lydia’s eyes flashed with fury, her voice tight. She turned sharply to Thorne, sneering bitterly, “Seems you’ve kept your secrets well.”
Moira frowned in confusion, but Marina hastened over, grabbing her mother’s arm urgently. “Mother, I’m not feeling well. Please, let’s go home.
Moira’s attention shifted entirely to Marina, ready to lead her away, but Lydia blocked their path decisively, confronting Marina’s pale, worried expression. “Are you so desperate to take your mother away? Afraid she might uncover the truth?”
Marina’s lips turned bloodless. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Moira, sensing the tension, questioned sharply, “What exactly are you implying?”
Eyes blazing, Lydia demanded, “Don’t you wonder whose life essence pulses within Marina’s chest?”
Moira responded without hesitation, “A generous soul offered it, of course.”
Lydia laughed bitterly, “How easy do you think it is to find a soul donor? Marina waited so long for a suitable match–how strange that one appeared the very moment Selene was brought to the sanctuary. Whose lite force do you think now sustains your beloved daughter?”
Moira paled visibly, shaking her head furiously, “You’re speaking nonsense! No matter my feelings towards Selene, I would never consent to such an act. How dare you slander us!‘
Lydia turned fiercely toward Thorne, tears welling in her eyes, “Ask your precious son–in–law if it’s slander.”
Moira’s face drained of color as she turned toward Thorne, who stood motionless, his head lowered. She glanced at Marina, who frantically shook her head, feigning ignorance.
Moira struggled for breath, her voice barely above a whisper, “No, it can’t be. This is impossible… you must be lying…” Without another word, Lydia grasped Moira’s arm, pulling her roughly toward the carriage and swiftly unfastening the shroud. Selene’s still, lifeless form emerged into view.
Cedric arrived moments too late. Moira’s scream pierced the air as she collapsed, staring at the lifeless face before her.
Cedric lunged forward, supporting his shaking wife, attempting futilely to shield her view. But it was far too late.
Moira’s eyes widened in disbelief, her mouth open in silent horror. Her body trembled violently, leaning heavily against Cedric. Her voice came in weak, breathless gasps, “How how can this be? This can’t…”
Chapter 15
Lydia’s voice echoed coldly, condemningly, “Take a good look Marina’s life was bought with your other daughter’s soul.”
The devastating truth shattered Moira completely, and with a final, agonized cry, she collapsed, unconscious.
Chapter 15
