Ember's finger tapped steadily against the polished surface of the mahogany desk—soft, rhythmic, but laced with impatience.
"So," she said at last, her voice edged with restrained irritation, "tell me—what exactly is this deal you were talking about?"
Her gaze landed on Linda.
Linda, in turn, glanced at Aren, silently passing the responsibility.
In truth, she knew nothing.
She was merely accompanying Aren.
Even the earlier act, where Aren had implied he would take the offer to Scarlet instead, was also something she had been clueless about.
Her only contribution was to remain silent throughout, letting Ember form her own guesses regarding everything.
And Ember had.
Now, the weight of the room shifted.
Aren spoke.
"Miss Ember," he began, voice calm, almost indulgent, "the deal I'm offering will benefit you greatly."
"Then explain it clearly." Her patience thinned, the words clipped.
Aren didn't rush.
