The Rule
“But such questions are not wise. Not for you, and not now.”
“My lady—”
“I am not angry,” Inayat interrupted softly, “but I advise you to guard your curiosity. Not every silence begs to be broken.”
There was a beat of quiet, filled only by the fragrance of rosewater and the hush of moving liquid.
“Return to your duties, Nagma.”
Nagma bowed deeply, though Inayat could not see it. “Yes, my lady.”
She stepped back quietly and exited the chamber, her footsteps barely audible against the marble.