My voice barely above whisper, I asked:
"Who are you? How do you know Evelyn... and what makes you think she's still alive?"
The boy's piercing green eyes locked onto mine, filled with a deep sadness and familiarity.
"My name is Asher Blackwood... your cousin. Our families split apart years ago due to a dark feud."
My mind reeled – a cousin I never knew existed!
Asher continued, his voice low and urgent:
"Evelyn and I grew close in secret. She confided in me about the dangers surrounding your family... and her own death was staged to protect her from them."
I felt like I'd been punched in the gut – my entire reality crumbling.
Asher handed me a worn photograph:
"This was taken days before her 'death'. Evelyn's alive, Aria. Living in hiding with my family's help."
The photo showed Evelyn smiling with Asher and others I didn't recognize – all bearing resemblance to me.
*My intense gaze continues the story*
My eyes still fixed on the photo of Evelyn alive, I asked Asher:
"What dark feud? What dangers have my family been hiding from me?"
Asher's expression turned grim, glancing around nervously as if fearing listeners:
"Our families, Blackwood and Ravenwood – yours – were once allies in business and magic."
My heart skipped a beat – magic?
Asher continued:
"But your ancestors made a pact with a powerful entity for wealth and influence. My family refused to join... and was cast out.
This entity demands loyalty and sacrifice. Your family owes it a debt – in blood."
I felt chilled to the bone:
"Evelyn's 'death' was supposed to pay this debt. But my family tried to cheat fate... and now you're next, Aria."
Suddenly, twigs snapped behind us. Asher grabbed my arm, whispering:
"We must leave. Now. Your family's watchers are near."