"She is such a snake," Kira muttered under her breath as she paced the length of her bedroom. "How is it that they can't see it?"
Mara smiled gently while she folded the fresh linens into neat stacks. "I heard some of the other servants talking this morning, Your Highness. They're saying… well, they're saying you didn't show up because of the dress. They say you lied about being sick to cover up a tantrum."
Kira stopped in her tracks, her eyes snapping toward the maid. "That is not true, Mara."
"I believe you," Mara said quickly, her voice low. "I know you don't like pink dresses, but I also know you aren't a spoiled, bratty princess as everyone thinks."
Kira let out a disbelieving chuckle. "They think I'm a spoiled princess?"
Mara nodded once. "To be honest, Your Highness, I had that impression of you when you first arrived. But after spending time with you... you're kind. You're considerate. You just seem like a normal girl."
