"So if you have an issue with me, Selene," she continued, "say it directly. Stop cutting corners. Stop hiding behind old rumors and half-baked suspicions."
Selene's lips pressed together in a cold smile, but she said nothing.
Evelina straightened her shoulders. "I was out there bleeding for Arcadia, but where were you? Hiding behind walls? I'm not in the mood to entertain veiled slander while bodies are still being pulled from the rubble."
She turned to the king, and though her voice was respectful, it lost none of its edge. "Your Majesty. With your permission, I'll take my leave. I assume the rest of this council will continue before someone thinks of accusing me of being a mole next."
Lucien didn't stop her.
Damien didn't.
No one did.
Because they couldn't.
She gave Selene one last look. Not a threat. Not even anger. Just… disappointment. Cold and quiet.
Then she walked out.
Boots striking the marble with calm, deliberate steps.
And not once did she look back.
