She thought blood made them sisters until the mask slipped, and the monster smiled back.

———

Lily’s POV

The room was still, save for the hum of silence that felt heavier than sound. I stared at the woman across from me, my sister, and barely recognized her anymore.

“Well, firstly,” Rena said, lips curved in a chilling parody of warmth, “I’m glad the baby is doing fine.”

Then came the twist. Her smile sharpened. “And don’t worry, Chase won’t kill you. Not until after the child is born. Courtesy of me.”

Her voice sing songed the words, like it was some gift she’d wrapped with a bow.

My eyes widened....