She released his throat with a violent shove, stepping back as her chest heaved.
"Silver... I am harsh with you because I know my mother. She is never a true ally," Evangeline whispered, her sharp composure returning though her voice carried a bitter edge. "She will smile right to your face while pouring poison into your very cup."
"She already did," Silver replied with an unbothered, freezing calm as he adjusted his collar. "And her antidote tasted utterly bitter."
"What?" Evangeline snapped, turning around to face him in an instant. Her eyes narrowed in utter disbelief. "What did you just say?"
"Nothing worthy of your royal attention," Silver answered smoothly, his face blank as he picked up his painted mask. "Now, if you will excuse me, I shall take my leave, just as you desired."
"Wait! You haven't answered me!"
