Chapter 21: Ella is Demoted

Ella awoke with a sense of determination. Ella slipped into her room, hiding the shroud beneath her mattress. Her heart still pounding from the encounter in the forest. Before she could catch her breath, a sharp knock at her door startled her. "Ella," a voice called, cold and commanding. It was Lydia. Ella opened the door to find one of Lydia’s personal servant standing there, her expression severe. "What is it?" Ella asked, trying to keep her voice steady. "Follow me," the lady ordered, turning sharply on her heel and walking down the corridor. Ella followed, her stomach churning with apprehension. They entered Lydia's private study, and she shut the door behind her, leaving the two women. Lydia turned to face Ella, her eyes icy. "You’ve been quite the busy bee, haven't you?" she said, her voice dripping with disdain. Ella swallowed hard, trying to maintain her composure. "I don't know what you mean, Lydia." "Don't play dumb with me," Lydia snapped. "I know you've been sneakin