"Thank you, my lady," Sorayah uttered as she collected the list with practiced ease. She offered a slight bow, then turned to take her leave but Arata's voice halted her.
"How about this?" Arata continued smoothly, her tone laced with something Sorayah couldn't quite place. "You should come to my quarters more often. I'll have new lists prepared daily, and you will be the one to handle them. It gives me a sense of security, knowing that my lord's personal maid is attending to my needs. No one would dare harm me or my unborn child then."
Sorayah resisted the urge to scoff aloud. Safe? From what? Mira? So she won't harm your baby? Or perhaps you simply want to keep a closer eye on me? But why?
Maintaining her composed facade, Sorayah bowed slightly. "I'm afraid His Highness, the Beta Lord, may not approve, my lady. As his personal maid, I am required to remain by his side until bedtime."
