Adina arrived at Jocelyn's quarters exactly at noon. The maid had barely finished announcing her before Jocelyn stepped out, her eyes sharp, lips pulled into a thin line. The smile from yesterday was gone, not that Adina was expecting it.
"You're late," she said, her lip curling into the thinnest smile. "I've been waiting."
Adina blinked, a little startled. She wasn't late. Jocelyn had said noon, and this was noon. Still, she didn't say a word but smiled with a polite nod. "Forgive my lateness, my lady," she said.
"Of course. It's only but a minute. Do come in." Jocelyn stepped aside, finally allowing her into her chambers.
The sitting room smelled faintly of bergamot and incense. She was led to the outer balcony where a table was already set, delicate tea cups, a silver teapot steaming gently, everything perfectly aligned like it had been staged for a portrait.
Adina forced the smile on her face to stay still.
