I pace back and forth in Rhea’s small quarters, my brow furrowed, arms crossed tightly over my chest. I feel the sting of Rhea’s eyes on me, her judgment, and it gnaws at my nerves. She leans back against the edge of her bed, arms crossed, waiting, expectant. I can’t tell if she’s ready to lash out or listen.
Finally, I stop and face her, unable to hide the desperation in my eyes. "Rhea… it’s the only way. I have to let Lucian believe the child is his."
She stares at me, disbelief hardening her gaze. "The only way? You honestly think letting him believe this lie is safe? How could you risk it?”
My defenses go up instantly, and I cross my arms tighter over my chest. "What choice do I have? This is the only chance I have to keep my baby safe. If he thinks this child is his, he’ll protect it—he’ll protect us both."
Rhea lets out a bitter laugh, sharp and cutting. "And you trust that?" She shakes her head, her expression a mixture of anger and disappointment. "Talia, you’re playing with fire. He’s the Alpha of Darkfang, not some fool you can deceive forever. When he finds out—and he will find out—that child is Kael’s, do you really think he’ll just accept it? No, he won’t. He’ll kill the child, and you with it." Her voice drops, the bitterness slipping through in every syllable. "You’re not just putting yourself in danger. You’re putting the Moonborn Heir’s life on the line."
I stiffen, glancing away, my resolve wavering under her scrutiny. I never wanted her to know how much doubt gnaws at me every night. "Rhea… he already knows the child’s destiny."
Her face twists with confusion. "What are you talking about?"
My shoulders tense, and I glance down, almost ashamed. "He knows this child is the Moonborn Heir," I say quietly. "Lunara’s Oracle told Lucian he would play a role in the Prophecy."