Caleb turned to me, his eyes wide with relief and gratitude. “I knew it,” he whispered, his voice a mixture of awe and apology. “I never doubted you.”

I squeezed his hand, feeling the warmth of his trust seep through my skin. “I know,” I replied quietly, appreciating the solidity of his support amid the storm.

Vivien, stripped of her ammunition, grappled with the reality of her failed coup. Her lips pursed, fighting against the tide of emotion threatening to spill over. The truth had dismantled her machinations, leaving her exposed and defeated.

Dr. Evans, sensing the shift in the room, continued with professionalism. “This marker has no health implications, but it does serve as a genetic fingerprint of sorts, confirming familial connections. Luna is indeed your granddaughter, Mrs. Monroe.”

The words hung in the air, carrying a finality that could not be contested. Vivien, cornered by the truth, had no choice but to concede. Her shoulders slumped, the fight leaving her as she glanced at Luna once more, her expression softening ever so slightly.