Mirrelie
“Lady Calliope,” she greeted warmly.
Calliope smiled sweetly. “I thought I should stop by and check on my sister.”
My stomach twisted as her eyes landed on me. I was still holding the tray. Sweating, exhausted and humiliated.
Something bright flickered in her eyes. Amusement.
“Oh dear,” she said softly. “You look exhausted already.”
I lowered my gaze as Calliope walked closer slowly.
“You should stand straighter,” she said lightly. “You’re making yourself look even bigger.”
Lady Celestine let out a quiet chuckle. Heat rushed into my face instantly.
“I’m trying,” I said quietly.
“Yes,” Calliope replied sweetly. “That seems to be the problem. You always try but never quite succeed.”
The words struck painfully because they were true.
At least… they felt true. Nothing I ev
