For the first time, Darren laughed without any trace of warmth.
“Because I was made from him.” Darren said and silence swallowed the chamber.
I stared at him.
“What?” I asked.
“Our father discovered that the First Alpha's blood could be divided, preserved, and used to reinforce the seal. When the first experiment failed, he tried again.” Darren explained as he touched his chest.
“I was the result.” He said as Vespera went completely still.
“You're saying you're a copy?” She asked.
“No. I'm saying I was born from the same blood as Damon, but I was never permitted to live as his brother. Father believed two heirs would threaten the seal. He kept me hidden beneath the estate, where the ancient chamber could hold my blood without allowing the thing beyond the door to reach me.” He expla
