But Matilda was the matron of this flock, she wouldn't be outdone by someone she took under her wings. Finally, Matilda spoke, her voice equally low and controlled. "In as much as I feel betrayed, Mara, I respect one thing – the love that Zafron has for both of us." She let out a small, bitter laugh. There was more bitterness in her laughter than the joke in it.
"We can deny it all day long, but Zafron cares about us equally."
Mara's eyebrows rose slightly, surprised by this admission. It was something she herself knew. Zafron was stuck between either of them and wouldn't pick one. At the same time neither of them were willing to give him up for the other.
