Lena's heels clicked sharply against the polished marble floor of the upscale market, the sound echoing faintly as she moved between aisles. Her gaze swept casually over the shelves until it caught something or rather, someone unexpected.
At the far end of the produce section, bent slightly as she arranged baskets into a cart, stood one of Thaddeus's sharp-mouthed maids.
Lena's lips curved. Perfect.
She walked swiftly toward her. "Hello there," she greeted lightly.
The maid froze for a moment, glanced up, and immediately recognized her. Her reply was curt, respectful but cold. "Good afternoon, ma." She quickly averted her face again, returning her focus to the goods in front of her as if Lena weren't standing there.
Lena stepped closer, lowering her voice. "Can I have a word with you?"
The maid ignored her, shifting a basket and continuing with her task.
Undeterred, Lena leaned in, her tone sharper. "I'll make it worth your while. Some money, for your time."
