Arwen stiffened for a moment when she heard Catrin. Her eyes zeroed in on the words written in bold letters.
Letter of Severance.
She stared at it for a long moment, saying nothing.
Around her, the air seemed to still. Guests glanced at one another, unsure how to react —or whom to side with.
To Emily, however, this was just perfect.
When Catrin had first stopped Arwen from leaving, Emily's heart had plummeted, fearing the worst —that Catrin might, in some twisted maternal sentiment, be actually doing it to make Arwen return. But the moment she heard her mention the letter of severance, she could barely hide her glee.
She had always known, though she never admitted it aloud, that as long as Arwen remained a Quinn, her position as heiress could never be secure. Even if she wore the title now, it could be ripped away in the future should Arwen decide to claim what was rightfully hers —because no matter what, Arwen was the real daughter—the rightful heir.
