The sharp sound echoed through the silent room like a gunshot.
A blood verification test.
Just like that, the final piece of truth was laid bare for all to see. The twins weren't just adopted children. They were Giada's children. Hers and Nico's all along.
Illegitimate. Hidden. Carefully concealed until now.
A wave of gasps swept through the crowd, even though the rumors had already been circulating in whispers.
"I knew it," someone muttered under their breath.
"Please, it was obvious," another added. "They said they didn't want kids, and then suddenly came back with twins? Who were they trying to fool?"
"God… poor Seraphina," someone said quietly, their voice filled with pity. "She raised someone else's children for eighteen years. Gave them everything. Love, time, even a piece of the Valente territory. And in the end, they turn around and call the woman who destroyed her marriage 'Mom.'"