Martha remained silent as Arnold continued.
"I bet those two have some special connection with her. Otherwise, why would they get a position so easily? You had to fight so hard for this."
Finally, Martha nodded slightly. Her voice was calm, though tinged with resignation. "Yes. Ivy gave them the position because they're her best friends."
Arnold's face slowly flushed, a dark, irritated red creeping up his neck.
His jaw tightened before he finally spoke, his voice edged with restrained annoyance.
"This is clearly planned. Ivy is making sure you know your place."
Hearing that, Martha turned toward him, confusion flickering across her eyes as her fingers unconsciously tightened against the rough fabric of her sleeve.
Arnold didn't pause, his words flowing as if he had been holding them in for far too long.
