"I think she is a good choice," said Carl. "She is sensible, from a good family, and seems reasonably ethical." He nodded. "If I were to choose someone for myself, I would make such a diplomatic choice."
"Rose did set a lynch mob on me one time," Violet said, feeling suddenly spiteful. "For money. Not for ethical reasons."
Carl sipped his tea. "Still, she is a good choice."
Violet was saved from making a response by Rose herself appearing. She stood on the top step as if she was too nervous to go any further. Mark stood behind her, a few steps down.
"Um," she said, looking down at her feet. It was weird seeing her as anything but self-assured. "Violet said that I should come here."
"Rose!" said Tiara, rising from her seat. She walked across to steer Rose over to the table. "Come and s
