Shadowheart

She touched the marks, stroked them, overcome with a rush of tenderness and shame.

FOUR

Lady Melanthe had warned her of poison. Beware what you eat, the countess had said. Take heed of what you drink.

her heart would know of its own accord

who can appreciate your superiority

You look alike to my mama

How depraved of you

you will end a whore upon the streets in your recklessness

ornate silver goblets

shrill note that boded ill

leaving an abiding sense of loneliness that had not subsided