"She questioned your loyalty?" she echoed, barely containing her disdain. "That girl's arrogance knows no end."
"She even refused to let me send food to Casian," Miranda added, her voice bitter with resentment. "Implying I'd harm him."
Seraphina stood abruptly, her eyes narrowing with fury. "How dare she?"
Miranda looked up, seizing the moment. "I only ever wanted to help. I stayed loyal to you, Your Highness, and this is what I get in return? Disgrace… suspicion…"
Seraphina's jaw clenched as she looked down at Miranda with a renewed resolve. "You've suffered enough. I won't let that girl take another step unchecked. She may have my son's favor, but she does not have mine—and in this kingdom, that still matters."
Miranda lowered her eyes once more, hiding the small, victorious smirk that tugged at the corner of her lips.
Just as planned.
