One of them

Hermione stood in front of the other ladies. They were settled in a circular motion while she stood in between them. Sinclair had taken her spot by the chair atop the couch where the other ladies were. Sitting down, her head raised with pride as she glowered at everyone beneath her.

The couch was a long one with a curve, containing all the ladies.

Hermione felt her legs shook as she stared back at them. She still hadn't deciphered why she was called to this place.

The Queen mother had kept silent and was only watching. The rest of the ladies also cast judging eyes on her, except for a few of them who had their gaze lowered like Mari.

Hermione could tell that the woman didn't choose to be there. Perhaps, she was also forced.

With hands clamped before her. Hermione tried to control a flaccid breath. She could feel her palms turning sweaty. She wiped it on her dress, having no other option.