Page 6 of Reign

“It sounds ridiculous, but this stuff has been ingrained in us for centuries. I’ve been groomed as a secret society member since I could crawl. My sister, too. And my father, grandfather, great-grandfather before that.” A shadow ripples over his expression. “You’ve seen what they’re capable of. Don’t discount their power simply because they covet pretend royal titles.”

Ivy’s fading gaze forms into the air around me. Her eyes locked on mine, wet with silent pleas as she took her last breaths.

I was so useless in that moment. So benign in my ability to assume my rightful position and kick Sabine off this so-called throne before Ivy had to die.

I think about what that does to a person, when someone they care about dies unexpectedly and violently. It derails the heart, imprinting a permanent mark that trails behind them like an oily shadow…

Even Sabine isn’t immune to grief.

My chin jerks up. “Piper died. That wasn’t in Sabine’s plans when she brought me here, was it?”

Chase takes a moment before he answers. “No.”

“It makes perfect sense now. Piper’s death really wasn’t because of the societies. Sabine and your father didn’t know Piper was digging up dirt on Rose. They had no idea she was helping Emma escape their underworld. Addisyn’s jealousy was a variable they didn’t consider.”

“You started looking into the existence of the Nobles and Virtues before they were ready. My father had to pivot hard and fast. That’s when they tapped me to do their dirty work.” Unreadable lines deepen his frown. “I was already in position.”

“They wanted you to gain my trust. Weaken my will.” My statement burns my throat, clotting my voice.

“Father admitted why it was so important I keep you close. He told me about your relation to Rose.”

“And to Theodore.” I massage my neck in thought. “My ancestry gives me control of both societies. Why not kill me, too, and end the bloodline for good?”

Chase “Our pairing meant I naturally maintained more power over you, as a future Noble King. Especially if you never figured out your heritage. But, I started caring. And they weren’t so sure I was willing to hide the truth of your blood for much longer.” Deep crevices form around Chase’s full lips. “If they ever figure out just how much I’ve fallen for you…”

I give him a level stare. “Their plans would change again. They’d want me dead and lose the bloodline forever. Even if the rest of the Virtues and Nobles find out about their duplicity, they won’t mind, because I’m already gone.”

“Sabine might’ve killed your mom. She definitely killed your best friend. She’s not going to stop. I have to protect you.”

I peel off my pajamas and start pulling on clothes strewn about the floor.

Chase’s back goes rigid. “What are you doing?”

Once I pull the Briarcliff sweater over my head, I turn. “Sabine and your dad are so ego-driven, they never gave thought to the fact that I don’t want to rule the societies or keep their secrets. I’d rather blast them open and expose them to the world, with Ivy and Piper’s ghosts cheering me on. The Nobles and Virtues may not believe you, but perhaps they’ll believe me.”

The word is strange on my tongue: believe. A definition that’s been twisted, maligned, and meaningless when it comes to my life.

But this time?

“This time,” I say, “I’m not going quietly. I’m showing everybody, the entire school, everything I’ve found out. Piper’s diary. Rose’s letters. Howard Mason’s discoveries. All of Briarcliff will learn about the academy’s dirty secrets, and then it’s up to them on what they want to do with the information.”

Chase sighs, readying for an argument.

“It’s not up to you anymore,” I say. “My only friend in the world is dead. I’m not going to sit down or be quiet or hide like Sabine wants. She thinks this will shut me up or bring me to her side. But I’m going to do what she least expects. I’m publicly outing her, Chase. And the Nobles. I’m done with this charade.” My voice cracks. “Done being told what to do. I’m taking it back.” I swipe under my nose. “I’m getting Ivy justice. Avenging my mom. Representing Piper. And keeping you. The last person I have left.”

Chase’s shoulders slope, but he lingers on my face. His lithe body slips from the bed as silently as silk leaving a hard surface, and he prowls closer.

Cups both sides of my face.

And says, “My sweet, sweet possum. My reluctant princess. My vengeful queen. My girl. I am on your side. And I will stay there, whatever you decide to do.”

* * *

I write long into the night.

The police presence we predicted never comes, but just as quickly as that concern sparks, I stanch it and focus on finishing the most important paper of my life.

“Got it,” Chase says behind me.

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