Maya paused.
Then, with perfect softness and absolutely no loyalty whatsoever, she shook her head.
Phei's eyes widened.
Maya moved to Phei's side, slipped her arm around his and hugged it with the innocent confidence as though she was about to commit social murder in public.
"He hoards all your affection," she said, tilting her face toward Mother with a tragic little sigh. "He did not want to share your affection with me."
Mother's eyes narrowed.
Phei stared down at the traitor attached to his arm.
Maya shrugged, then snickered softly against his side.
"Young man," Mother said.
Phei straightened.
That tone was lethal.
That tone had probably disciplined kings in another life.
"Tell me Maya is lying."
"Of course she is lying," Phei said immediately, with the confidence of a man choosing survival. "I told her exactly as you said."
"Liar," Maya said.
"Liar," Mother said at the exact same time.
The word landed in perfect unison.
