"Our request is simple," Helena said. "Withdraw the accusation. Go to the Order and tell them it was grief, confusion, whatever excuse you want. Just take back your words. Dante walks free. And your family walks free."
Lucy stared at her, stunned. "You want my son to lie so that snake can walk out smiling?"
"We want our brother's sentence reduced," Rowan snapped. "Family takes care of family."
"Ethan took care of all of you," Lucy cut sharply. Her voice shook, but it did not break. "When Helena's tithe ledger came up short, Ethan sold two of his mares to pay the fines. When Rowan's axle snapped and killed a boy on West Pike, Ethan signed the fine to our house so it would not bury you. He sheltered you, fed you, saved you."
Her eyes hardened. "This is how you repay him?"
Cedric stared at the floor. Maris swallowed hard.
