The moment Lydia walked away, the murmurs started again. Not loud, but strong enough for Bella to feel every word land on her skin like needles.

“Her name was written in blood…”

“What if it’s true?”

“She brought chaos before…”

Bella kept her eyes forward. If she reacted, it would only feed them.

Alfred faced the crowd. “No one accuses Bella without proof. Anyone who spreads lies answers to me.”

The courtyard fell silent, but it wasn’t trust—it ...