Elise felt her breath hitch. Her mind scrambled to process Lena’s words, but they settled like ice in her veins, causing her to feel numb.

Murder? Clara had committed murder?

Her fingers tightened against the fabric of her dress as her stomach twisted painfully. “What… what are you saying?”

Lena watched her, unsure if she had done the right thing by informing her. “Clara committed murder,” she replied. “I saw it happen.”

Elise shook her head, willing herself to think. Her memories of Clara were many things. Yes, it was bitter, frustrating, and even painful.

She was always the daughter their parents prioritized and revered but murder?

“It’s not possible....