Natalia:
The chamber was too quiet when the elders finally dispersed. My mother hovered by the door, wringing her hands, her eyes darting between my father and me. She knew what was coming, and she hated it, but she didn’t stop him. She never stopped him.
And sometimes I really did wish that she did.
“Natalia.”
My father’s voice was smooth, steady, but sharp enough to cut bone. “You’ve finally earned it. I am impressed by you. I did not expect you to be able to do so.”
I frowned. “Earned what? I don't understand what you're talking about. There is nothing that I have done.”
He stepped closer, his shadow blotting out the lamplight. “His trust. His arm around you in front of the elders, in front of me, don’t pretend that wasn’t deliberate. You have his confidence now. Finally, you can
