"Micah," Rosa snapped, her voice cutting through the silence of the corridor. "Let's go."

I offered a small, delayed nod. "Yes, let's."

We resumed our walk down the grand hallway toward the dining wing. As we climbed the short flight of stairs leading into the elevated dining area, the sprawling glass table came into view.

"Good morning, Don," Black bowed respectfully as Sullivan stood near the head of the table. I moved past them, taking my seat on the plush chair directly to Sullivan's right.

"Hello, Don," Rosa greeted, bowing her head as well.

I smoothed my dress and settled in, expecting Sullivan's usual icy silence. Instead, he abruptly broke...