I settled into the plush velvet chair of the private room Alaric had arranged for us, grateful for the comfort it offered my aching back. The space was luxurious, with gilded mirrors reflecting sunlight from tall windows and fresh flowers perfuming the air. My mother and half-sisters were clearly impressed, their eyes widening as they took in the opulence.
"This is... quite magnificent," Mariella said, smoothing her skirts nervously as she sat across from me.
Melisande nodded enthusiastically. "I've never been in such a beautiful tea room before."
"The Duke spares no expense for his family," I replied deliberately, emphasizing the word 'family' while meeting my mother's gaze. The subtle reminder of where my loyalties lay wasn't lost on her.
Corinne studied me with shrewd eyes. Unlike Melisande's open admiration, she seemed determined to remain unimpressed. "You've certainly landed on your feet, haven't you?"
"Corinne!" Mariella hissed.
