"Arion."
"Nero."
For several seconds they stared at each other through the screen with the absolute seriousness of two men discussing something considerably less ridiculous than the technical degree of their blood relation.
Nero broke first.
"You are still family, which means I remain an excellent candidate."
"You are using genealogy to nominate yourself."
"I am establishing eligibility. Those are different things."
Arion rested one elbow against the desk and rubbed his forehead.
Nero looked delighted with himself.
"You are enjoying this far too much."
"I am happy for you."
The answer came without the slightest mockery.
It caught Arion enough that his hand stopped.
Nero's expression softened, purple eyes warmer beneath the shifting light from the vehicle windows.
"You wanted this for years. You were simply sensible enough not to make that Dean's problem until he wanted it too."
Arion looked toward the partially open office door.
