Catalina's plans were fragile.
Everything was built on secrets and perfect timing. One wrong move could make the whole house of cards fall down. Julian was almost hers. He didn't need a wildcard like Seraphina making things worse.
Catalina turned to her vanity. She saw a flower vase. With a fast, angry motion, she swiped it off the table and as it scattered on to the floor.
It was time to make things right and set her plans into motion, but with Seraphina in town...
There was a single knock and Eleanor walked in. She saw the mess on the floor and frowned.
Catalina forced a smile on her face, quickly hiding the rage that had just boiled over.
"Mother," Catalina said softly. "Forgive the mess. My hand slipped."
Eleanor stepped over the broken porcelain, her gaze sweeping over the room. She didn't buy the excuse for a second, but she played along.
