I Am Duchess Mavez

"Truly, you know nothing of a lady's heart," Elena chided her older brother whilst jutting him out of the way with her hips. She had grown up by this man's side and could read his temperament like the back of her hand. That was the only way she could make herself useful in this world where sons were preferred over daughters.

"I don't need your help—" Everest began.

"Ophelia?" Elena calmly interupted, her voice readily lowering everyone's defense. She smiled at the silence, for it was better than shouts for her to leave.

A second passed and Elena saw Everest's accusing glare. Elena was glad she came at the right time, for her brother was losing his patience. She had never seen him this bothered before. He was always calm and composed, in control of everything. Seeing this humored Elena, making her even more intrigued by Ophelia.