Chapter 16

"They say you should let old grudges die with the dead, Jean, but you asked for this. If it's the truth you want, I'll give it to you—because the last thing we want is for you to resent us when we've done nothing wrong!" Eleanor's voice trembled with pain.

"Did you know where your parents' accident happened?" She paused, her brow furrowed. "Rhys! Do you know how far that is from Minnishkee State? It's several states away! And yet, you, who was with your parents back then... You ended up there!"

Justine had no idea where the accident had occurred. This was the first time she had been given a concrete location. Her ears rang with shock and confusion.

"Your grandfather ordered a thorough investigation before he passed, and it became obvious what had happened. The only reason you were there wasn't because some kind souls brought you to the orphanage. Aurora Roch took you away!

"Then, when we found you, you… You…"

Eleanor faltered, unable to bring herself to mention Ares. She quickly s