Slater
"I know it's hard, Dad, but accepting that Charis is your bastard son, Eamon was the best decision. It's the only thing that would keep her safe."
My father sighed heavily in the desk chair, rubbing his temples. After a long moment, he looked up. "If this blows up in our faces… can we even trust Vale?"
"It won't," I cut him off. "He's a student now based on recommendation and not by you. We need to give Mom a heads-up about it and hope she understands, but this is the only way to keep her safe."
"I'll try," my dad nodded, "but your mother will not like this. I can know for sure."
So, the truth was that Headmistress Vale had implored my father to let Charis keep using our surname and pack affiliation. She knew Charis was a girl, too. But Charis had lied to me about that.
"You still love her?" My dad asked suddenly, studying my face.
My eyes dropped to my clasped hands.
