Aria’s POV
I sniffled, swiping at the last of my tears with the sleeve of my shirt. It was almost embarrassing how easily I’d fallen apart in front of her. But then again, who wouldn’t after hearing their entire life was built on lies?
“So,” I said, my voice rough, “what should I even call you? I mean, grandmother doesn’t exactly fit...” Grandmother just didn’t feel right. Not when she looked barely a decade older than me, with flawless skin and piercing eyes that seemed to hold the secrets of the universe.
Tabitha leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs with the kind of grace that felt practiced. She rested her chin on her hand, her lips curving into a small, amused smile. “Let’s keep things casual, shall we? Call me Tabby.”
“Tabby,” I repeated, testing the name on my tongue. It f
