Then, her lips curled into a chilling smile. "But that detail, you will keep to yourself."
Doctor Mira blinked. "My lady?"
Seliora stepped forward until they were almost nose to nose. "You and I know there is no baby," she said softly. "But to the rest of Blood City… there is a heir growing inside me."
Mira felt her pulse quicken. She was a doctor, not a liar, not a pawn in the concubine's schemes.
Seliora's smile widened. "And you, my dear Doctor Mira, will provide me with a replacement baby. At the right time."
Mira's breath caught in her throat. Her thoughts spiralled. She felt the walls closing in.
"You can't be serious…" she whispered.
"I'm always serious," Seliora replied, already turning away as if the matter had been settled with a handshake. "I expect your professional cooperation."
"My lady, I can't possibly… that… that is treason!" Doctor Mira's fingers clutched at the hem of her coat.