Page 11 of Tempting God

Dad looks at her. “Did you do as I asked?”

“Of course I did.”

But she blinks twice, her telltale for when she’s lying.

What did he ask her to do?

It involves me, that much is sure.

Was she supposed to tell me what was going to happen tonight?

A sob works its way up my throat.

Dad turns to Grandfather. “I will follow you until the end, sir.”

Grandfather gestures to Charles, who sits at his right. “My grandson, Charles, does the entire Blanc family proud today, ensuring our family’s legacy continues. Brother Blanc, please pour the drinks.”

Charles stands, going to a small wooden table behind Grandfather.

I’ve never seen that table before.

Why is it here?

And why are there two black goblets on it?

Grant grasps my hand, pulling me down into my seat.

“Look at me, Little Fae.”

I don’t want to.

“Greer. Look at me. Now.”

His commanding tone has me dragging my gaze from my family to Grant.

“It sounds like your mother was supposed to prepare you for this. I don’t know why she didn’t, but it’s clear this was intentional.” He exhales. “You must be strong, understand? Any sign of weakness will be used against you.”

“Me? What am I to them?”

“You are royalty to the Brotherhood, and one day your husband will gain a membership to the Brotherhood because of you.”

I bite back a sob. “I never asked for this.”

“I know, Little Fae. I know.” He glances over my shoulder and says, “Only a bit longer.”

Hot tears fill my eyes. “Why doesn’t anyone stop them?”

“It’s the way of the Brotherhood.”

There’s a thud at the other end of the room that makes me flinch, as if I’ve been slapped.

Grant grabs my shoulders, ensuring I can’t turn to see who fell.

“You’ve got this, Little Fae.”

I shake my head. “I don’t. Nothing will ever be the same again.”

“No, it won’t,” he agrees. “But you’re strong. You’re going to be just fine.”

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