"So, you must be Adam. And that means you're Alfred… and you're Aria."
Tatia's sharp eyes swept over the twins as she called their names. Both nodded instinctively, feeling the weight of her gaze.
Gloria, still shaken, took a deep breath before forcing herself to speak. "Mom, why are you here?"
The moment the words left her mouth, she regretted them.
Tatia's gaze snapped to her like a hawk spotting prey.
"You have some nerve asking me that," she said, voice cold. "After you hid my own grandchildren from me all these years?"
Gloria flinched, gripping the edge of the table. "…I was just following my brother's wish." Her voice was quieter now, eyes downcast.
Tatia scoffed. "And how did that work out for you?"
Silence.
"Aria almost died because of that brat Mark," Tatia continued, her voice filled with restrained fury. "Alfred would've followed if not for Aria awakening at the right time. And let's not forget Adam—who had to step in and clean up the mess."
