Maria's pleading eyes turned upward, glistening like those of a small animal caught in a storm.
The nobles could hardly contain their laughter, though none dared make a sound. Even Joy, standing silently behind her mother, pressed her hand over her lips to hide a small smile.
Finally, Marina chuckled softly, the sound rich and warm.
"Ahh, Maria...Maria...you're far too easy to tease." She said with a fond sigh. "Relax, my dear. I'm only jesting."
"Jesting?" Maria froze, then blinked in disbelief.
"Yes." Marina said with a grin. "I know you would never betray your faith or your vows. I merely wanted to see you panic for a moment."
Marina then tilted her head slightly, curiosity replacing mischief.
"But tell me, my sweet sister in faith...what were you thinking just now, when you looked at that gold?"
Maria let out a long, shaky breath of relief, clutching her chest as though her heart had stopped beating for a second. Then, finally gathering herself, she smiled softly.
