Colette's face paled at the sight of Lyra and Percival standing in the doorway. Her momentary slip had confirmed something unthinkable.
Old Mrs. Covington's frail body trembled with vindication as she continued pointing at Colette. "I may be old, but I remember the faces of those who harm my family. You switched those babies!"
Colette quickly composed herself, smoothing down her dress. "Nonsense. The medication has her confused." She forced a smile at Lyra. "Darling, you're here. How wonderful."
Lyra remained frozen, her mind racing to process what she'd just heard. Eleanor Croft is her mother? That would mean Mrs. Moreau—the only person who'd shown her kindness—was actually her biological mother?
Percival's hand pressed against the small of her back, steadying her. "Mrs. Blackwood," he said coldly. "I believe you were just leaving."
