"Yes. This commoner was born lowly. Naturally, I can't be compared to the Crown Prince's wife. So you did the right thing, my lord. This commoner wouldn't dare hold it against you."
A violent cough tore through me, and blood splattered from my lips. Homer saw it, and for once, he asked nothing more.
He rubbed slow circles on my back, his voice softening. "You've always been the most sensible one, Penny. I was overthinking it. Rest now. Your husband will stay right here. I'm not going anywhere."
I didn't know how long I slept before the noise from the courtyard dragged me awake.
The moment I opened my eyes, I saw Ruby sprawled in the center of the yard, a rod cracking down across her body again and again.
Her clothes were soaked through with blood. Each breath she drew looked like it might be her last.
Chloe Fox sat nearby, watching with cold, disinterested eyes.
When Homer saw me stir, he didn't bother explaining. He simply pressed my shoulders back down. "The Crown Prince's wife is disciplining a servant. Don't interfere, Penny."