"Will this work?"
Elina's voice cut through the heavy silence.
She put down the papers. Let them settle against the desk with a soft rustle after hearing what her mother had told them.
Her eyes moved between the documents and her mother's face. Searching for certainty.
Selene nodded. "For now, this is our only option. Most of our allies are moving against us instead of taking our side. We need to consolidate what power we still have."
"If we can hold our position for the next few months—until the Duke's investigation concludes—then we'll have leverage again."
Elina's teeth caught her lower lip. Bit down.
Then released.
Sigh!
She nodded. "Alright."
Her posture shifted. She stretched her arms over her head. Fingers lacing together as she arched her back.
Her spine cracked softly.
"Mm."
She lowered her arms. Rolled her shoulders once.
Then stood. Her boots carried her around the desk. Toward where Selene sat.
Selene looked up. Her expression softening as Elina approached.
