Matilda's mind raced, trying to make sense of this sudden outburst. Her voice trembled as she spoke, "What is this sudden change and anger towards me all about? Do you miss your family? Do you want to return to Astoria?" Her eyes searched Mara's face desperately. "Or is it something else? Money? I've never been late with your payment, so what is the matter?"
Mara turned to look at Matilda and then let out another laughter. Her laugh was so biitter as it cut through the tense air between them. "None of those things mean anything to me. Money or whatever you thought it was." Her eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint in them. "Earlier this morning, you thought you were so wise, sending me to the market just so you could have time alone with Zafron."
