Sephrah's words settled into the air like an unshakable decree.
Cassius's jaw tightened. He had expected manipulation, but this? It was too deliberate. Too conceited.
His gaze flickered to Elias, who had stiffened at the suggestion.
A tour?
Elias had no business giving Cassius's mother a tour of the estate. That was a task for the house steward or a designated servant, not him.
Yet, he couldn't refuse. Not when she had spoken so casually, as if the matter had already been decided.
His fingers curled slightly around the handle of the basket. He hesitated, glancing at Cassius.
Cassius's expression was unreadable, but Elias could feel the tension beneath it.
He didn't want this.
And for some reason, that only made Elias more uneasy.
"Ah…" Elias finally found his voice, measured but careful. "If that is what the Madam wishes, I will do my best."
Sephrah beamed. "Wonderful."
