{Third Person}
A thick silence fell over the room.
Lysandra's expression changed instantly. The polite composure she had worn moments ago cracked, replaced by something far less pleasant.
Her eyes hardened, and her jaw tightened.
Amara saw the shift; that moment, her pride was struck. But she hadn't expected that Alexander would step in to shield her from the attack, despite his anger toward her. But Alexander wasn't finished.
"Who knew you had enough time to monitor the movements of others," he added casually.
Lysandra inhaled slowly, forcing herself to regain control. When she spoke, her voice was steady again, but thinner.
"Lady Amara is also a woman in this palace," she replied. "It is only natural that I keep an eye on her."
Alexander didn't even pause. "We cannot afford your kindness."
Across the room, Elowen subtly shook her head, her gaze drifting away. 'Mother really doesn't know when to stop…'
