Chapter : The Heir’s Choice

Brandy's voice slithered through the fire-lit room like a blade dipped in honey.

She leaned against the wall in a crimson coat, her lips curved into a smirk that didn’t reach her eyes. Those eyes flicked to my father—Virello—then to me.

"Did you miss me, darling?" she said, voice dripping mockery.

My fists clenched at my sides.

“You followed me here,” I said quietly. “Used Marcus to lure me in.”

Brandy stepped forward slowly, heels tapping over the polished wood like gunshots.

“I didn’t have to. You would’ve come anyway. That’s what daughters do—they come running the moment Daddy whispers.”

Virello didn’t blink. “She came...