Lara managed a hesitant embrace in return, patting Amelia's back stiffly before stepping away. "Amelia, my servant told me about you," she said slowly, the words feeling foreign on her tongue. "And... about the Saturdays I used to spend at your home. I'm sorry I can't remember."
Amelia nodded in understanding. "It is alright. We can make new memories." She looked at Lara gently. Then, she turned to the other ladies and gave a triumphant smile.
Janna's gaze darkened, eyes narrowing at Amelia's display.
Lara was at a loss what to do. She didn't know how to interact with them, but a nagging intuition whispered that they had ulterior motives for approaching her. She could guess what it was, as she pieced together their subtle glances toward the prince and hushed whispers.
Lara straightened and turned gracefully to Prince Reuben, who had been observing the scene with mild curiosity. "Your Highness," she began, her voice smooth and unhurried, "this is Amelia—my childhood friend."
