“Oh, it’s a tradition for Evonia’s noble
families. It’s only a formality at this point. Just
announcing your place in society really. But I
couldn’t let you miss it, regardless of what your
mother and your foolish father think about
making your own choices and being fully
aware of—”
“So you were planning this all along?”
I cut her off. My voice was sharp. “You lied
to me about wanting to get to know me
and make amends with my parents? It was
all just a way to manipulate me into coming
here so you could show me off to your
society friends?”
“Well, it’s not just for my benefit, Grace.”
My aunt gave me a stern look. “I know you
haven’t known about your heritage until
recently, but you really need to start taking
on Valmont family responsibilities.”
“And what if I don’t want them?” I was
starting to understand why my mom had
rejected this life.
The question caught Caroline off guard,
but she didn’t get a chance to respond.
60
