Aria returned home with Kade beside her, both silent as they processed the council meeting.
"That was too close," Kade finally said as they entered the house”
“we have until tomorrow to prepare a real defense."
Marcus met them in the hallway, his expression grim, “the security systems have been upgraded as you requested, no one gets in or out without our knowledge."
"Good and how's Betty?"
"Safe. Asking questions, but safe."
Aria nodded. "I need to see her."
As they walked toward the panic room, Diana emerged from the study. "Aria, we need to talk about those documents Sophia presented."
"They're forgeries."
"Some parts, yes. But not all." Diana lowered her voice. "They know about Betty's bloodline. The real question is how."
Aria's steps faltered slightly. "It doesn't matter how
