As Kisha gently guided the children toward the rear tables, a few of the noblemen seated nearby exchanged low chuckles, the echoes of their amusement lingering in the glittering hall.
One of them leaned slightly as they passed, his voice dropping into a mocking whisper.
"Hey, beautiful. What a waste. A woman like you wasting her time with stray brats."
Another, a feline noble with slicked-back hair and half-lidded eyes, smirked cynically.
"How about this, love? Ditch the kids, join me tonight. I'll make sure you never have to run an orphanage again."
Laughter rippled through the small crowd.
Kisha's steps faltered briefly, her smile tightening. But she kept her head down, shoulders squared, and held the children's shoulders protectively. Without hesitation, she quickened her pace.
"Ignore them, children. Just keep walking," she said softly, voice steady despite her internal turmoil.
Another voice rang out, dripping with sarcasm behind them.
