"Goddess in heaven, let me see," Penelope said, taking Cora's arm gingerly in her hands and turning it over. It was already a deep purple where Rayth's hand had clamped down on her like a steel vice.
"It's fine," Cora swallowed, wincing at the movement. "What do you think will happen with Nelo?"
Penelope shook her head. None of this was fine. None of it. It had never occurred to her that her children would have to endure physical harm. They were supposed to be protected. They were supposed to be safe. That was the assurance they had received!
"Mom?" Cora said softly, watching her mother stare hard at her bruise. "Do you think he gets to actually live? Or are they… are they going to kill him immediately?"
"I don't know, my love. Why don't you let me help you get out of your dress," she said, circling to the back of Cora so she could undo her.
