[Eleania's POV—During the Hunt—Before Lavinia Found Her in Osric's Arms]
I sat calmly, pretending to enjoy the peaceful forest breeze, when a knight from House Talvan leaned close to whisper something into Sirella's ear.
Her lips curved into that knowing smirk—the kind that never meant anything good. "Good," she murmured, voice smooth as silk laced with venom. "Keep an eye on her."
The knight bowed and retreated.
Sirella lifted her teacup with elegance that could fool anyone, but I knew better. That smile of hers was a blade wrapped in honey.
"It's your chance now," she said, voice low and deliberate.
My brow furrowed. "Chance? What chance?"
Her eyes met mine—cold, sharp, and utterly merciless. "Either win Lord Osric's heart… or make sure to separate Princess from Lord Osric."
The words slithered into me like poison. Sweet. Deadly.
