The First Doubt
The next morning, Victoria appeared in the dining hall early, looking paler than usual. Clara was already there, quietly pouring coffee for Mandaline.
Ethan entered soon after, followed by Isabella.
"Morning," Victoria murmured, avoiding Isabella's gaze.
Ethan nodded distractedly. His eyes flicked to Clara, softening for half a second before his walls went back up.
Isabella smiled sweetly. "Busy night, Victoria? You look tired."
Victoria forced a smile. "Didn't sleep much."
"Oh?" Isabella asked lightly. "Something on your mind?"
"Nothing worth discussing," Victoria replied coolly, then turned her attention to Clara. "You're up early."
Clara nodded. "Mandaline likes her tea before breakfast."
Victoria hesitated, then said quietly, "That's… considerate."
Clara blinked, surprised. It wasn't quite kindness, but it wasn't cruelty either.
Isabella noticed the change and frowned ever so slightly.
After breakfast, Mandaline called Victoria into her room. "You've been quiet today," she said, studying her daughter. "What's troubling you?"
Victoria looked away. "Mother… if someone you trusted was being framed, what would you do?"
Mandaline smiled knowingly. "I'd find proof before accusing anyone."
Victoria nodded slowly, heart pounding. "Right."
As she left the room, she saw Clara down the hall, helping Eleanor with the garden again.
For the first time, Victoria didn't feel hate — only unease.
And somewhere deep inside, the first flicker of doubt about Isabella began to take root.