Aurora’s stomach twisted with a mix of fear and anger. She knew Madam Elena was enjoying every bit of her discomfort, but she couldn’t let her see how much it affected her.
“Why are you here?” Aurora asked, forcing herself to sound calm even though her voice shook. She wanted answers, and she wanted to get through breakfast without another scene.
Madam Elena’s smile didn’t waver. “I thought it only polite to check on our newest addition,” she said smoothly. “After all, you’ve already proven to be… quite special.”
The room felt stifling, and Aurora felt the other girls’ eyes on her again, their curiosity growing. She clenched her fists under the table, willing herself to stay steady.
“I don’t need you checking on me,” Aurora replied, barely holding back her frustration.
Madam Elena let out a small laugh, clearly amused by Aurora’s defiance. “Oh, I think you do. After all, your actions last night-” she glanced briefly at Lily, who was still rubbing her cheek, “-show you still need guidance. This place has its rules, Aurora, and breaking them has consequences.”
Aurora’s heart pounded, but she refused to look away. “And what rule did I break?”
Madam Elena’s smile turned cold. “Respect, dear. And respect is rewarded-or punished. I’d suggest you keep that in mind. Especially if you wish to keep what little freedom you have here.”
Aurora’s jaw clenched. She could feel the weight of Madam Elena’s words, but she wouldn’t let herself show fear. “If you’re done,” she said, turning her attention back to her untouched plate, “I’d like to finish my breakfast in peace.”
Madam Elena’s eyes narrowed, but her smile stayed fixed. “Very well,” she said, her voice dripping with mock sweetness. “Enjoy your meal, Aurora. I hope it provides you with the strength you’ll need.”
With that, she turned and left the room, her steps echoing in the silence. Once she was gone, the tension in the room eased slightly, but the other girls were still watching Aurora. She forced herself to ignore them, focusing on gathering her strength for whatever was coming next.