Returning to the maids' quarters and celebrating this small victory felt satisfying. As I left the hall, I caught sight of Catherine's sour expression, and it felt so good to see her utterly defeated.

"You're asking for trouble," Nana said worriedly. "Queen Catherine could come after you, Delilah."

"I only did what I had to do," I replied.

"You shouldn't have defended Gema."

Of course, hearing Nana's words, Gema and Cassie immediately fell silent. Especially Gema, whose face turned red with suppressed anger.

"You're the one who caused the trouble, so you should take responsibility for it!" Nana accused. "Queen Catherine will be watching all of us now, and it's...