Page 136 of Axis of Fire

Hatred stirred beneath my skin.

Hot.

Violent.

Ready to break free.

But once again—

something held it back.

I glanced at Airis, searching his face for answers.

His attention never left my parents.

Turning back to them, I spoke coldly.

“I saw what happened to the house, but honestly, I don’t really care which one of you got hurt or how.”

That was only half true.

I wanted details.

I wanted to know how dangerous Harold Moss’s people really were.

But my pride wouldn’t let me ask.

“I need to know how I ended up with you.”

“What do you mean?” my mother arched a brow.

“I mean, what made you decide to adopt me?”

“And what makes you think you aren’t our biological daughter?” my father finally spoke.

A bitter laugh nearly escaped me.

The arrogance in his voice was almost impressive.

“Because it’s obvious,” I snapped. “I don’t look anything like either of you, and you’ve always treated me like some unwanted orphan.”

“Blaming us for everything has always been your favorite hobby,” my mother replied with a sly smile.

I wanted to throw fire at her.

Not to hurt her.

Just to scare her.

To wipe that sickly sweet smile off her face.

“Enough dodging my questions,” I said sharply, fixing them with my best murderous glare. “Because if you keep pushing me, I won’t be responsible for what happens next. How did I end up with you?”

“And what exactly are you going to do if we don’t answer?” my mother asked lazily, leaning back against the couch and crossing one leg over the other.

“I assure you, she won’t lay a finger on you,” Airis said after a short pause.

“I can’t promise the same for myself.”