When Rose finally drifted off to sleep, Salviana placed a soft kiss on her forehead.
She turned to the maids, her voice low but commanding. "Continue to watch over her. Keep the room quiet and cool. If her fever rises again, send for me immediately."
As she rose to leave, Emma tugged on her skirt once more. "Mama?" the toddler asked, tilting her head.
Salviana crouched down, meeting the child's gaze. "No, Emma," she said with a smile. "But I'll always come when you call."
The toddler beamed, throwing her tiny arms around Salviana's neck in a clumsy hug.
As Salviana left the room, her heart felt lighter despite the weight of the rumors surrounding her.
Little Rose would recover, and for now, that was enough.
Back in the hallway, Jean walked beside her, her expression thoughtful. "You know they'll twist this into something else," she said quietly.
