Shona trembled but forced herself to speak. "The Augustus family... they'll know. And when they do, you'll regret crossing them."
Aiden raised a brow, amused at her attempt to invoke fear. "The Augustus family? Oh, I'm quite aware of them. But they're not my concern—at least, not yet. My interest is in the real Lirael, not you."
He took a step back, releasing her from his grasp, allowing her to stumble slightly as she regained her balance. "I suppose the ministers thought replacing the princess would keep her from seeking Augustus's help. A clever move, but a futile one."
Shona's eyes widened as she realized the depth of his understanding. She had been placed in the palace by the ministers to ensure Lirael couldn't reach out for her family's support, keeping her bound to the court's control. But now, Aiden knew everything, and he had the upper hand.
"What are you going to do with me?" she asked, her voice small but filled with lingering defiance.
