My heart shattered watching it. Christian appeared in the hallway, drawn by the commotion. The moment Claire saw him, her eyes blazed with hatred. "You." Her voice cracked. "You killed him. You sent Daniel to die for a piece of land. You destroyed my family." Christian's expression showed the hit landed. Deep. Everyone was watching. Waiting to see what I'd do. I made a choice that surprised even me. "You're right," I said to Claire. Elder Sarah's face lit up. "Daniel died because of Christian's strategic decision. Christian chose territory over guaranteed safety, and Daniel died because of that choice." Christian's eyes widened. "But here's what you don't know." I pulled out the records. "Christian has been secretly supporting your family for three years. An

