ELARA
"To placate them," his voice was coarsely delicate against my skin; I had to struggle to remain poised. "They are still mourning your overthrow; you are here to tell them that everything is going to be fine- that I'm doing everything within my power to maintain peace during this transition process- and that you are also doing your best to support me. They only need to lend their support by being calm."
"Have you gone mad?" I exclaimed, not believing my ears. "How stupid do you think they are to believe such a c**k-and-bull story?"
He shifted closer and I flinched back. He paused and eyed me with pursed lips; his face unreadable as he lifted his finger and tucked an escaped hair behind my ear without breaking eye contact. My breath came in pants.
"My family is after your
