Ellora's eyes were still locked on Layla. There was a pause before she finally exhaled, her hand on her temple. "Layla," she spoke in frustration, "are you still clinging to that idea? I told you to forget it."
Layla folded her arms as she smirked. "And I told you, dear sister, that I won't." She glared at Ellora. "Besides, I am still a princess of our homeland. Queen Dowager Lilian won't stop me."
Roseria, who had not spoken a word the entire time, nervously glanced between the two women. Her fingers played with the hem of her gown, wondering if she really should go. But when Layla reached her hand out toward her, her heart skipped slightly.
"Come on, Roseria," Layla urged. "Nobody will notice. Just move forward."
