Valda's POV
I stormed into the servants' quarters like I owned the place, which technically, my family once did before everything went to hell.
Juniper was scrubbing pots at the sink, her hands red and raw from the hot water. She looked up when I entered, her expression immediately guarded.
"Where's Irene?" I demanded without preamble.
"Lady Irene is none of your concern," Juniper said, turning back to her scrubbing.
"Answer the question. Where is she and why isn't she back yet?"
"She's with Lord Yin. They went out. That's all I know."
"Out where?"
"I don't know, Lady Valda. And even if I did, I wouldn't tell you." She set down a pot with more force than necessary. "Now please leave. I have work to do."
I laughed, the sound sharp and cruel in the small kitchen. "Oh, Juniper. Sweet, helpful Juniper. Always so concerned about Lady Irene. Tell me, are you tired yet?"
"Tired of what?"
