MIGUEL'S MANSION
Elizabeth descended the grand staircase, her heels clicking softly against the steps. Her thoughts were elsewhere until she nearly collided with Cole, who had just exited Miguel’s home office. Both froze, their eyes locking in an unexpected and charged silence.
“Elizabeth,” Cole greeted, his voice calm. “I didn’t know you were home.”
Elizabeth crossed her arms, her expression cool and guarded. “Funny, I was about to say the same thing. What are you doing in my house, Commander?” she said, a small smile forming on her lips.
Cole chuckled lightly, catching on to where this was heading. He raised his hand, brushing the back of his neck in a nervous gesture. “Well, the supreme general summoned me,” he explained, using the formal title for Miguel to make it clear it was an
