Claire refused to entertain such accusations. "Look, I know you have deep feelings for Jamie, and it can be incredibly painful when those feelings are not reciprocated, especially for someone as young as yourself. I even understand why you might direct your jealousy towards me, even though I never conspired to take Jamie from you. You must believe me." Claire paused, waiting for a response, but Laoghaire remained silent. "The truth is, he was never yours to begin with."