“So, you don’t believe?” Seraphina’s voice drifted off, quiet and trembling.

“Not even remotely, Mom. Actually, after my conversation with Caspian last night, he figured out that Orion was playing both him and Ambrose like puppets. He’s done believing it, too. I’m sorry, Mom. I probably shouldn’t have brought it up. It’s not even relevant anymore, and now I feel like I’ve caused more harm than good.”

“No,” her mother replied, shaking her ...