Chapter 69. Proven Yourself Useful

Back at the atelier, the air was thick with the metallic stench of blood. Streaks stained the floor where Melva had been beaten, her breath shallow but steady. The Queen Mother’s eyes narrowed as she took in the sight.

“That’s enough,” she snapped, her voice cutting through the room like a blade. She waved her hand in annoyance. “This is no fun anymore. I see it now. That whore is truly Cain’s daughter. No compassion. No heart. Not even for her own servant.”

Her fury twisted into a cruel smile as she motioned for Melva to be dragged forward. A maidservant lifted the girl’s chin roughly, forcing her face up. Blood trickled from the corner of her lips.

Wilma leaned in, her voice low as she grunted, “You. Look closely at your lady. She left you to suffer without even blinking. Don’t you want revenge? Don’t you want to get back at her?”

Her eyes gleamed with malice. “Work for me instead. Be my eyes and ears while you serve her. Do this, and I will reward you. I’l