Twisted Kingdom (Royal Elite 3)

Just like back then.

A flashlight explodes in my head like fireworks.

Just like back then.

The memories flood my brain so fast, so hard I don’t know how to stop them even if I could.

Just like back then...

30

Elsa

Past

I stand hidden in the balcony, not making a sound.

Daddy is talking to Uncle Agnus about work and stuff. When he’s done, I’m going to tell him about Grey Eyes.

After Daddy helps him, I’ll visit his home and we’ll become best friends.

Uncle Agnus stands beside Daddy, who’s sitting on the sofa. That uncle doesn’t like sitting around much. He doesn’t like to talk much either.

Daddy’s jacket and tie are thrown on the table; his face appears tired.

Everyone has been saying Uncle Reg is no more. I asked Uncle Agnus what ‘no more’ means since he’s Uncle Reg’s brother, and he said it means he went to Eli.

I hope he’ll take care of him in that place called heaven.

Uncle Agnus squeezes Dad’s shoulder. “It’ll all work out, Ethan.”

“It will, Agnus.” Dad staggers to his feet. “It will.”

Uncle Agnus lets him go. “Where are you going?”

“To Elsa.” He smiles. “I haven’t spent time with my princess in a long time.”

“Before that, there’s something I need to tell you.”

Dad stops, but doesn’t turn around. “About?”

“Abigail. It appears she has been hiding Jonathan’s son.”

“What?” Dad whirls around so fast, I flinch.

Uncle Agnus remains unaffected, his expression as serene as always. It’s like he’s a rock, a solid rock Daddy can lean on. “Reginald kept him under her order.”

Dad’s jaw works. “Why am I only finding out about it now?”

“Because I just found out myself. One of the staff heard sounds near the basement area.”

“Sounds,” Daddy repeats slowly. “What type of sounds?”

“Whimpers. Cries.”

“Fuck.” Dad kicks the table. “Fucking fuck!”

“She’s hurting children again, Ethan. You need to do something about it this time.” He pauses. “If you don’t, Elsa will be next.”