What are you trying to say?" she asks.
I almost laugh. Does the girl really not understand what I am saying? I force a smile before looking back at her. I let my voice go slightly unsteady at the end, the way voices go when something costs you to say it.
"I had an affair with Varder," I say. "Some days ago."
Mira's face changes immediately. "But isn't the Alpha heir married to your sister?"
Her eyes are accusing. Good. Accusation means she is engaged, means she cares about the shape of the story, means she will carry it.
"Yes." I let the word drop simply. Then I look down at my hands and I say, quietly, "What happened was — I went to his chamber to serve him. And he—" I stop. Swallow. "He assaulted me. I was too frightened to call for help. So I gave in."
