Margaret had requested the meeting herself.
Maya arrived at the quiet café in central London a few minutes early. The place was elegant but nearly empty at that hour, giving the conversation privacy. She had barely taken a sip of the tea in front of her when the door opened.
Margaret Thoreau walked in.
As always, she carried herself with the confidence of someone used to power and control. Her posture was straight, her expression calm, but her eyes were sharp the moment they landed on Maya.
She walked toward the table without greeting her warmly.
"Mrs Thoreau," Maya said politely.
Margaret sat down slowly, placing her handbag on the table beside her.
"I won't waste my time with unnecessary pleasantries," Margaret said coldly.
Maya expected that.
Margaret leaned forward slightly.
