The estate moved as it always did. Silent footsteps along polished corridors. Porcelain placed at the breakfast table. Doors opened and closed without sound. Nothing in the house suggested a power shift would take place before noon.
Arianne descended the stairs in a dark suit, her expression composed. Her calm demeanor established quiet authority as she crossed the foyer and joined Franz at the breakfast table, a cup of freshly brewed coffee already set before her plate.
"I will not be able to pick up the twins later," Arianne began while Franz ate in silence across from her. "I need to go straight to Rochefort Group after I meet with Conway Capital."
Franz nodded.
"I will ask Mira to pick them up then." He paused, setting his fork down. "Have you told the twins about your trip? I am not sure if I should be the one to explain your sudden absence."
Arianne set her cup down after a sip.
