Chapter 6 - Lena Commands The Room With Quiet, Deadly Authority
I stepped away from my chair and walked slowly toward the head of the table where my parents were sitting.
The room was so quiet that the sound of my low heels clicking against the hardwood floor sounded like thunder.
Dad refused to meet my eyes, staring intently at the salt shaker on the tablecloth as if it held the secrets to the universe.
Mom was still crying quietly, her shoulders shaking with deep, regretful sobs.
“I came tonight because you invited me, Dad,” I said, standing right beside his chair.
“I paid for the dinner because I wanted to take care of my family, just like I always do.”
“I didn't need a speech, I didn't need a toast, and I certainly didn't need a fancy name card.”
“I just wanted to enjoy a quiet evening with the people who raised me.”
“Instead, you used your platform to make me feel like an outsider in my own bloodline.”
Dad finally looked up, tears welling in his aged eyes as he reached out a trembling hand toward my sleeve.
“Lena... please, sit back down. Let us fix this. We can order fresh food... we can—”
“I have a national security crisis to manage, Dad,” I interrupted gently, stepping out of reach of his trembling hand.
“My country needs me right now.”
“Enjoy your steaks.”
“They’re fully covered.”
I turned on my heel and walked toward the exit, my posture straight, my head held high.
General Vance fell in step two paces behind me, his heavy military boots creating a sharp, rhythmic tempo.
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As I passed Melissa, she reached out her hand slightly, her lips moving as if to speak, but no sound came out.
I walked past her without slowing down, leaving her standing in the ruined remains of her coronation night.
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