“I know what it’s like to lose a sibling,” I murmur, remembering Shade. It doesn’t seem real, like maybe everyone is just lying and he’s at home now, happy and safe. But I know that isn’t true. And somewhere, my brother’s decapitated body lies as proof of that. “I only found out last night. My brother died at the front.” Julian finally turns back around, his eyes glassy. “I’m sorry, Mare. I didn’t realize.” “You wouldn’t. The army doesn’t report executions in their little books.” “Executed?” “Desertion.” The word tastes like blood, like a lie. “Even though he never would.” After a long moment
...more
