Heather Longtreader was jealous of her, Heyna knew. There was something between Smalls and Heather and Heather felt threatened.
But one question kept coming to mind throughout the days following their encounter: Was Heyna herself jealous of Heather?
She'd known the prince for years, ever since they were twelve. They did have a close relationship and she liked him. He was kind, smart, fun… not to mention he was the prince heir, though she didn't really care about titles. She did care deeply for him. So was she jealous of Heather?
She thought about it for days, running it over in her head even as she helped Emma in the hospital. She did smile every time she saw the prince. She enjoyed his company. If things were different, she could see herself marrying the prince, she finally admitted to herself. But, Heather was the one he chose and she could—she would—be content with that, and happy for them.
Was she jealous? Yes, she finally decided, a little. But she would put it behind her and forget it. The prince was no longer anything more than a friend and her ruler. If she ever found a buck, it would be elsewhere.