Her words cut deeper than I expected.
But years of nursing had taught me poise. Quietly, I took an empty chair near the head tables. The room hushed as Sophie strode over, her heels clicking sharply against the floor.
“Mrs. Hale,” she said loudly, “your seat is elsewhere.”
“I’ll stay here,” I replied calmly.
Her expression remained unchanged. Then, with theatrical flair, she yanked the chair out from beneath me. Gasps filled the hall as I hit the floor. The shock silenced everyone—until the double doors swung open.
