Claire's POV
"Protecting me? From whom?" Evander shook his head, his expression softening as he let out a bitter laugh. "Claire, you have been punishing yourself for things that were never your fault. I never wanted anyone but you."
His words were like a lifeline, cutting through the storm of doubt and guilt that had consumed me for so long. But could I believe him? Could I allow myself to hope after everything?
How could I not believe him now? His words felt so genuine, yet the scars of my past made it hard to trust completely. Was my sister truly my sister? She had always taken everything that was supposed to be mine.
I was the legitimate daughter, yet I was treated as if I didn't belong in my own house—as if I were a burden, a thing that should never be born. Even the maids and servants were shown more respect than I ever received. My so-called room was nothing more than a dusty storeroom, cramped and cold.
