"We're finished."
Ethan slumped into his chair, his head in his hands.
"This is a government default. We're going to be the shortest-lived administration in Pennsylvania's history."
Leo frowned, a flicker of displeasure rising in him as he looked at his panicked chief of staff.
"Ethan, calm down." Leo's voice grew heavier. "We faced worse situations during the campaign. We had nothing back then, and we still pulled through, didn't we? Now we control City Hall, we hold power. Why are you losing your nerve now?"
Ethan lifted his head, his eyes vacant, his voice laced with despair.
"Leo, this time is different."
"Procedurally, there are remedies. We can request an administrative hearing."
"But do you know how long that takes?"
"According to the law, we have to submit a written request for a hearing to Harrisburg within fifteen days of receiving the notice."
