I couldn't breathe.
The creature beneath the throne had spoken four words.
I am your father.
But those words couldn't be true.
They couldn't.
"My father is dead."
The voice beneath the kingdom laughed.
"That is what they wanted you to believe."
I stumbled backwards.
Derek caught my arm.
"Aria."
I pulled away.
"Don't."
His expression softened.
"I know this is too much."
"Too much?"
A bitter laugh escaped me.
"My entire life is a lie!"
My gaze moved toward Eleanor.
"You told me my parents died."
Eleanor didn't answer.
"She lied," the creature said.
A deep rumble followed.
"Your mother and father did not die twenty-five years ago."
My heart stopped.
"What happened to them?"
Silence.
Then the creature answered.
"Your mother was sacrificed."
My stomach twisted.
"By
