Had it not been told by Maria, such a thought would never have crossed her mind!

In the blink of an eye, Clare felt a wave of embarrassment and disgrace wash over her.

Was this Maria's crafty gambit to ridicule her in front of everyone?

“Really?” Clare said with a hint of sarcasm.

"Being in the Limelight yourself, Maria, do you really find pride in flaunting such a thing?"