I spoke, my voice flat and cold. "Mom. Auntie. Uncle. What exactly is this about?"
They exchanged glances, then sneered in unison. "It means we've been putting up with you long enough, and today we're finally getting it off our chests!"
"Every time we had to look at you sitting up there on your throne, it made us sick!"
"We just didn't have the resources. If we'd been born rich like you, we'd be running the world by now! Who do you think you are?"
I held my temper. I watched Clement walk up to me, grip my chin so hard the bones ached, and tilt my face toward his. "Carla. I never loved you. Not once. Every time I lowered myself for you was the most humiliating moment of my life. But soon enough, you'll know exactly how that feels."
He released my chin, turned on his heel, and gave the order. "Bring Dawn and Tilly in. Once Dawn takes over Carla's body, bring Virginia back to serve as Tilly's vessel."
Moments later, two snakes were carried in, tongues flicking with excitement.
"Dawn, are you ready?"
The red-scaled snake lifted its head. Darling, I've waited so long for this day!