I rushed toward Julian, clutching my forehead dramatically as fresh blood trickled from the minor cut Aurelia had given me. The sight of Julian's blood—from that wild slash Aurelia had made with the knife—was perfect timing. His protective instincts would be in overdrive now.
"Julian," I gasped, deliberately stumbling into his arms. "You're hurt because of me."
His strong arms steadied me instantly, just as I knew they would. I pressed against his chest, making sure Aurelia could see how naturally I fit there.
"It's nothing," Julian muttered, his eyes fixed on Aurelia.
"Natalie Beaumont, she killed our daughter!" Aurelia's voice cracked with raw emotion. Her emerald eyes blazed with maternal fury. "She redirected Violet's kidney transplant to Isabelle!"
I felt Julian tense against me. The accusation hung in the air, sharp and dangerous.
"That's absurd," I whispered, forcing my eyes to fill with tears. "How could you say such a thing?"
