Esmeralda's eyes widened. She opened her mouth wanting to say another word when Ava interrupted her.
"You knew that a single stab could kill him." Ava pursed her lips. To be honest, she was a little impressed at her ability to make an impromptu story. "You have the means to kill him. Though I am wondering… what was your motive?" she asked.
"I said I— "
"Please, both of us knew you did it. Lying in front of an empath is a very bad choice."
Realization flashed in the woman's eyes. She waved at her maid and the woman retreated outside of the room. Now that there were only Ava, Josef, and her inside the room, Esmeralda's face changed. The sadness in her eyes vanished. What was left was… guilt and anguish.
"I didn't have a choice," Esmeralda looked at the Duke as if she was trying to tell him she was right. "My son… is becoming just like his father."
