Nova's voice rang through the tent like a whip crack, sharp and indignant. "Who are you calling a lapdog, Estella?!"
Estella raised a brow, her lips pressed into a tight line. She hadn't expected such an explosive reaction, but she should have known better. The truth always stung the ones it hit hardest.
Before Estella could respond, Katreena stepped in, arms folded, voice dripping with disdain. "Yeah, Estella. Nova and I are friends. There's no such thing as her being my lapdog. Don't delude yourself."
The air in the tent grew thick with tension, and Estella opened her mouth to retort, but a new voice cut her off.
Lana, who had been silent until now, stepped forward and positioned herself in front of Katreena like a protective mother bird. Her finger shot out, pointing directly at Estella.
"Don't talk badly to my friend," she snapped, eyes narrowing.
Estella looked at her, bewildered.
