The words hung heavy and poisonous in the air between us, echoing long after Lady Beatrice's soft, mocking laughter had faded away down the corridor.
I stood rooted to the spot, fingers pressing hard against my chest as if I could hold my breaking heart together by force alone. Cold unease curled tight and bitter deep inside my ribs — spreading fast, turning every warm memory Draven had left behind into something suddenly doubtful and thin.
But I forced my face smooth instantly. Not here. Never let her see. I drew myself upright, lifting chin high to lock every flicker of hurt safely behind a mask of calm dignity. I would give that woman no satisfaction whatsoever.
"Thank you for… sharing your thoughts so freely, Lady Beatrice," I said, voice steady and even though it cost me every ounce of strength I owned. "Now — if you will excuse me — I have matters to attend to elsewhere."
