A Contract The Empire Couldn't Break
Final, but not finished.
“Come in,” she said.
The door opened to reveal her assistant, composed as ever, holding a slim tablet. “Madam. The morning brief.”
Beatrice accepted it without comment, scanning the headlines quickly. Market fluctuations. Social coverage. A photograph of Nathaniel and Lillian entering a venue together, their expressions neutral, their alignment unmistakable.
Public unity. Private evolution.
Yes. It was progressing.
“Leave it,” Beatrice said, setting the tablet aside. “And cancel my afternoon appointment.”
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