LIORA’S POV
“What happened out there?” Seraphina whispered as I sank into my chair. “Why did you think the food was poisoned?”
“I saw the maids acting strangely around the table,” I said quietly, my hands still trembling. “They were clustered together, looking nervous. It felt wrong.”
“Your instincts aren’t usually wrong,” Sera said gently.
“Apparently they are this time.” I watched as Myra and the other candidates began serving themselves, my stomach still churning with unease.
Lady Serena leaned back in her chair, studying me with those sharp eyes. “Or perhaps you’re just too anxious. Seeing threats in every shadow. It’s understandable given your circumstances, but exhausting I imagine.”
“Maybe,” I admitted. But something still felt off, even as I watched the candidates eat without
