Elara’s face swung to the side, and she tasted scarlet in her mouth. She stumbled backward, holding onto the wall for support.

Polly was not done. Once Elara lifted her face, she gave her another dirty slap on the same cheek. This time, Elara shrieked in pain as she held onto her chin. The maids’ lips were wide ajar in shock as they watched the scene unfold before them.

Polly’s five fingers appeared on her pink face. A few spots were bleeding as Elara looked up at her in utter ...