The Gamble of Trust

Delphinia hadn't expected that.

Of all the things Lyvia could have said, all the excuses or justifications she could have offered, that wasn't one of them. 

Delphinia's fingers curled slightly against her lap. So apart from coming here to ask for forgiveness, Lyvia had also come to warn her?

She studied Lyvia carefully, taking in the way her shoulders were drawn tight, the way her hands fidgeted against the fabric of her skirt. There was tension in her, but not the usual kind—the nervous, self-conscious kind that came with guilt. No, this was different. It felt heavier, more urgent.

Delphinia's mind whirled with possibilities. Had something happened? Was Helena planning something again?

Of course she was. That woman never stopped scheming.