Deceit

Bella's mind reeled as she stared at her brother, her thoughts consumed by questions. Why had Edward betrayed their family? Why had he pretended to be dead?

Kieran's grip on his sword tightened, his eyes fixed warily on Edward. "Explain yourself," he growled.

Edward took a step forward, his hands raised in a placating gesture. "I swear, Bella, I had no choice. Father's debts had spiraled out of control. The Meridans threatened to destroy our kingdom if we didn't comply with their demands."

Bella's eyes narrowed. "What demands?"

Edward hesitated before answering. "They wanted us to surrender our claim to the throne. They promised to spare our lives if we cooperated."

Kieran's expression darkened. "And you believed them?"

Edward shook his head. "No, but I had to protect our family. I made a deal with the Meridans, agreeing to fake my own death in exchange for their mercy."

Bella felt a wave of nausea wash over her. Her own brother had betrayed their family, manipulated her into believing he was dead. The pain and anger she had carried for so long threatened to consume her.

"Why should we trust you now?" Kieran asked, his voice cold.

Edward's eyes locked onto Bella's. "Because I swear to make it right. I'll do whatever it takes to help you reclaim our kingdom and bring the Meridans to justice."

Bella searched her brother's face, seeking any sign of deception. But all she saw was desperation, a longing for redemption.

As she stood there, weighing her options, Bella realized that her quest for vengeance had just become even more complicated. Could she truly trust her brother, or was this just another web of deceit?