The manor was quiet again.
But since this was me, it wasn't the quiet of peace. No. This was the kind of silence that came just before a storm struck.
And by storm, I mean the many mistresses of my husband.
I'll need to add them to my list of things to do.
Even Shadow didn't stir when I passed. Yaozu had warned me—politely, of course, as he always did—that Lady Yuan had come uninvited and was waiting in my receiving room.
"She believes she's entitled," he said flatly, eyes glinting. "She thinks she's won."
I hadn't responded then.
I was responding now.
My steps echoed like blades against the polished stone as I pushed open the doors.
Lady Yuan was already seated—sprawled, rather—on one of the cushioned divans near the window. Her dress was gaudy today: embroidered peonies in deep crimson, with golden thread that caught the morning sun like flame. Her hair was done in high loops, more suited for a consort than a court lady.
