Anastasia’s POV
Jayden’s voice broke through the silence like a blade.
“Tell me the truth, Anastasia.”
I didn’t move.
He stepped closer. “No more games. No more half answers, I’ve protected you, I've stood up to the Elders for you. I’ve watched you cry in your sleep, whisper names I don’t know. I deserve to know the truth.”
I shut my eyes tightly. I had always known this day would come, but I wasn’t ready. How could I ever be?
Still, I slowly placed the cup down and stood, my legs weak beneath me. I turned to face him, and the look in his eyes made my breath hitch.
“Please, Jayden…” My voice cracked.
“Start talking,” he said, he whispered “You’re not just some lady who stumbled into my territory. Who are you really, Anastasia?”
A lump rose in my throat. I clenched my fists by my s
