I stood outside Alaric's study, my heart hammering against my ribs. Elara waited beside me, clutching her portfolio of business plans. After explaining Alistair's situation to her, we'd decided to proceed with our meeting—life had to go on, after all.
"Are you certain we shouldn't knock?" Elara whispered, eyeing the heavy wooden door.
I pulled the small brass key from my pocket—the one Alistair had given me months ago. "Alaric gave me permission to enter whenever I wish," I replied, though my voice lacked conviction. Truthfully, I rarely used this privilege when my husband was working.
The key slid into the lock with a soft click. I pushed the door open, revealing Alaric seated behind his massive desk, head bent over documents. He didn't look up immediately, his fountain pen scratching against parchment.
"Whatever it is, I'm busy," he muttered, still not raising his head.
I cleared my throat. "Alaric, I'm sorry to disturb you, but we have something important to discuss."
