Lyra's POV
"Of course, naturally," Vivienne replied with that practiced diplomatic tone. "The princess-heir had begun her formal training. At a completely different institution than her mother attended. Quite the scandal, really."
I made a noncommittal sound in my throat. Vivienne clearly expected some kind of response, but I had nothing to offer. The silence stretched between us until she released another one of her trademark sighs.
"Have you had the opportunity to meet any of your potential matches?"
I let out a harsh laugh. "More than I wanted to."
"More than you wanted?" Vivienne's voice pitched higher with shock. "Oh dear lord, the sandwich incident."
"The sandwich incident," I echoed dryly. "Though I suspect Ash was more furious about the blade wound than the mustard staining his shirt."
"You actually wounded him?" Vivienne's composure cracked completely. "Sweet merciful heavens, what could have possibly driven you to such extremes?"
