90
Kerina
The Primo Dictor leads me to a private room.
‘I don’t know what kind of joke this is, but if its money you want, I won’t pay.’
‘You think I want you to buy me off?’
‘Why else would you make such preposterous claims.’
‘You and I both know my claims are true. I am your daughter.’
‘Impossible!’
‘I’m the one you gave up to Marlane Vespa. I’m the one you told your wife died during childbirth.’
He draws his hand to his mouth. ‘It can’t be true. Is it really you, Kerina?’
‘How did you know my name?’
‘It’s the one I gave you.’
A range of emotions cross the Dictor’s face as he wrestles with the revelation.
He reaches out as if to touch me, then stops himself. ‘It’s not safe for you here.’
‘You’re the Primo Dictor, how can it not be safe? Unless you mean me harm.’
‘No! I did
