The Truth Comes Out

Sera

My ears rang as I looked back and forth between Fred and Killian. Fred, a man I trusted and loved like a father or uncle, and Killian, a man I hated but needed like I needed oxygen. Both of my worlds were colliding right in front of my face, but all I could think about was my father.

Possibly the only man I hated more than Killian. And loved. And feared.

“Is he dead?” I asked. My voice sounded hollow and competed with the ringing in my ears. What was that God awful sound? I reached out and steadied myself with a hand on Fred’s arm.

“You didn’t tell her?” Fred closed his hand over mine and glared at Killian. “She’s been here this whole time, and you didn’t tell her?”

Killian stood motionless a few feet away, looking more like a painting than a living, breathing man. Finally, he shifted his weight, and spoke. “This isn’t the time.”

“No,” I said sharply. “Don’t do this to me. Please. I can’t stand not knowing anymore. Is he dead? Did you kill him?”

Killian looked like I’d just slapp