A slap sliced through the tension, leaving a sharp, metallic ring in Beatrice's ears.

Beatrice cradled her cheek, her expression a mix of shock and disbelief, her voice trembling: “How is that possible? Francesca can’t have children anymore. She’s worthless now.”

The stillness in the air was suffocating, but even it paled next to the storm simmering on Sir Hale’s face.

With a cold laugh, Sir Hale spoke, his voice cutting through the silence ...