My dad's voice wasn't loud, but it went off like a bomb in the middle of the venue, sending shock waves through every single person present.
Everyone froze, stunned and rigid.
All the color drained from Calum's face in an instant. He swayed on his feet, nearly toppling over.
Meryl looked even more shocked, her eyes wide with pure disbelief.
Even Simon's usual calm, unflappable expression cracked. He stared at me, then at my dad, his lips trembling so hard he couldn't get a single word out.
"Chairman Lance? She… she's your daughter?"
My dad ignored him completely. He just looked down at me, his eyes soft with overflowing concern.
"Thalia, I've got your back, no matter what happens."
I nodded, and the tears I'd been holding back for so long finally burst free, pouring down my cheek
