At Silas's side, the maid stepped half a pace closer. Her gaze shifted, then settled on Liona.
Liona, who was standing not far from Mae, finally offered the maid a small smile.
…Didn't expect Lilia to grow taller than me, she thought lightly. She used to feel so small back then.
Meanwhile, behind the maid's flat expression, her thoughts moved quickly.
That's Nana, right?
Her eyes swept over Liona's body with careful scrutiny—far too careful to be mere politeness.
Nana… why do you look so small and thin?
…Was she abused?
Is she being fed properly?
Her gaze then shifted—slowly—toward Lucas.
That depraved man…
Her memory immediately leapt to the rumors she had heard before. Filthy accusations. Disgusting whispers.
…Did he abuse Nana?
Her expression remained professional, nearly flawless. Yet beneath her calm stare, suspicion settled in—cold and sharp.
