"Oh, the blueberry cupcakes are simply supreme. I insist, have another one."

"You know, I don't think it makes that much of a difference. There's enough cream and sugar in both to drown out the filling. Like," Adora licked her lips, removing a bit of cream, "I genuinely don't think I could tell them apart."

"Oooh, is that a challenge? We could organize a testing competition! I see it now . . . we could even make it a public event, and invite some of Glimmer's friends, the other princesses-"

"Oh, hi Catra!"

Double Trouble casually waved back at Adora. The silence in the room was palpable after the King's prolonged rant about different cupcake shapes and fillings. Catra was almost glad to have her escort - just like them, she couldn't stand sweets.

She put Finn down, and they happily troddled over to Micah. Like to like, Catra thought and chuckled. Unlike usual, however, the King did not bow down to start making faces at the little one, but just protectively put his staff around them - jiggly end down, of course, he had that much silly left in him.

"Had enough sugar for this week?"

"Catra please, it's good stuff." Adora took a muffin, trying to demonstrate how good it was. "I think there's still some omelette left if you want something with less sugar."

"Yeah, I hope so. Wouldn't be above them to pump it full of sugar, though." She glanced at the other two adults in the room, who were currently having a staring contest. "Sooo, guess Micah's in charge now that Sparkles is gone?"

"Indeed I am," the King answered through clenched teeth, not looking away. "And speaking of. Catra, we need to talk."

Catra's nostrils flared. It had been dumb to think she wouldn't be held responsible. Instinctively, she stiffened up, tail tucked in.

A tug on her leg distracted her. Having grown rightfully scared of the big tall man, Finn had crawled over back to her, hiding between her legs. She caringly scooted Finn over to Adora, hiding best she could that her hands were shaking. "I'll be back with you in a minute, kitten, okay? Be a good kid and stay with She-va while I take care of some business." Damn it, even her voice. Adora picked them up, and Finn gladly held on to her. The King had already walked off into a neighboring room, and Catra followed.

Leaving, she couldn't help but glance at Double Trouble. Their expression was blank and unreadable, their eyes locked onto hers. And she knew. She knew how plain her fear was to them.