[Bonus chapter]Ch. 153: Angel and Devil

A shadow descends upon our happy conversation, quite literally. It is Leana, to no one's surprise. She possesses a tact most mean girls lack, which is the sole praise I will ever give her. The voice dripping in disdain has been washed clean, replaced by a tone that is lighthearted and almost sweet.

"Greetings, your highness. I am glad to see you at this tea party. How fares Princess Julia? It has been a long time since I last saw her."

Her tone is polite, but the question is disrespectful. It's like biting into a cream puff and tasting mayonnaise. But despite the whispers that arise with her question, her carefully crafted smile does not waver.

She is her mother's daughter. Had Lady Bryce not smiled at me the same as I'd been forced to hold the boiling hot tea cup?