"Seb, I think you should go," Elara said, her eyes glinting with a hidden agenda. "Given our situation, the company, the rumors, you might meet someone who could help you turn things around. We need allies right now."
Before Seb could refuse again, a small pitter-patter of feet echoed on the hardwood. Seren ran into the dining room, her face lighting up.
"Dad, I want to go!" she cried, throwing her small arms around his waist. "I want to see the big hall and the pretty lights!"
Seb sighed, his hand instinctively reaching out to ruffle her hair. Even after the video at the office, seeing her like this, so small and seemingly innocent, he couldn't bring himself to be cold to her.
"Seren?" Seb murmured, his voice softening.
"Dad, please! Please, please!" Seren cried, her eyes welling up with tears that might have been real or might have been coached.
