Chapter 77

Cora POV

I took a slow breath, steadying myself before I spoke. If I didn’t say it now, I never would.

“Teagan…” my voice came out softer than I intended. “I didn’t leave because I don’t trust you. I left because I was scared.”

There was silence on the other end of the line, the kind that presses heavy against your ears.

“Your grandfather looked me in the eyes and reminded me of my place,” I continued, my fingers trembling slightly around the phone. “Your ...