After all, it was far better for her to tell the truth herself than risk others twisting it, turning her past into gossip to paint her as someone who became a mistress just to earn money. One false narrative could easily become 'truth' in the eyes of the public if left unchecked.
"What's wrong with being a waitress or a delivery person?" Hera asked calmly, her tone almost teasing. "The work was honest, and I didn't have to rely on anyone to live a better life."
Then she gave Alice a sharp, meaningful glance, one that spoke volumes without words, as if to say, 'Unlike you, I don't sell myself for money.'
The look struck Alice like a physical blow. Her pride flared, and for a brief, furious moment, she wanted nothing more than to storm forward and slap Hera right across the face.
