“Congratulations," Greta muttered as she tossed Stella a freshly ironed apron. “You've been promoted."
Stella blinked. “Promoted?"
“You're head server for tonight's banquet."
“That's not a promotion."
“Tell that to Luna Victoria. Or better yet, to Rebecca. It was her idea."
A knot formed in Stella's stomach.
---
The ballroom shimmered with golden chandeliers and the scent of roasted venison. Long tables gleamed beneath silverware and crystal, and wolves in formalwear roamed like royalty.
Stella stood stiffly by the kitchen doors, clutching a tray, every muscle tense.
Rebecca floated through the room in emerald silk, radiant and smug.
Joseph hadn't arrived yet.
“Smiling helps," Rebecca whispered as she passed Stella. “Or do they not teach manners in prison?"
Stella ignored her a
