They had just ended today's lesson when Lord Drex called for Serena. She hurried away, telling Lumina she would be back soon. Lumina watched her go, fingers worrying the hem of her sleeve.
Serena had not gone ten steps before a hand hit her face. She stumbled back, breath gone, eyes wide.
"How could you be so stupid?" a rough voice snapped. "I spent years keeping our name safe. You shame me, you shame this house."
Serena clutched her cheek, one foot shaking. "Father.." she tried, voice small. "I love him. I told you. I told you.."
"You think your feelings matter? You think that would make me rethink decisions?" Lord Drex cut across her.
His face was hard as stone. "You killed our honour. You tell the whole court you are carrying the Prince's child? Do you know what you have done?"
Shame burned in Serena's cheeks. She opened her mouth, closed it again. Her voice became a whisper. "I never meant to hurt you. I only…"
