Isabella
After the council meeting, I didn’t join Dominic for lunch. I went straight to my chamber, locking the door behind me.
I needed silence. I needed control.
I paced for a few minutes, listening to the quiet crackle of the fireplace. Then I sat at my writing desk, pulled out parchment, and took a deep breath.
"Icy," I whispered. "Let’s do this."
Her voice echoed softly in my mind, smooth and cold like frost. "Make it sharp, make it generous. Bait them well, but keep your claws ready."
I smiled. "Of course."
Hours passed as I crafted the letter—every word chosen with care, every offer sharpened with meaning. When I was done, I didn’t rest. I rolled the scroll and went straight to Dominic’s study.
He was surprised to see me so soon. "Already?"
"I don't waste time," I replied w
