The usually orchestrated manor became unrest as the walls preyed on the two siblings as they walked towards the two eloquently carved, mahogany doors which guarded their father's office.
Erick grasped onto the gold handle; pausing himself. This could've been just another invitation to some big ball or something else that would've been petty and insignificant. But why does he seem so hesitant to open the door?
Before Erick could self-rationalise his feelings, the door swung open from the inside, causing both Erick and his sister to trip slightly into the office.
Their father hosted many offices within the manor, but it was the main one in which the siblings were acquainted the least. Unlike the rest of the house, it was shrouded in authority with its mahogany panels shunning out daylight and mountains of bookcases which seemed to decorate every wall. Before them, lay a huge desk which stood proudly before a roaring fireplace which lit up the room. Their father stood before it, his back turned towards the fire.
"Elizabeth? I thought I requested for your brother only. Was there a need for you to be here as well?"
His voice was calm yet definitive as he slowly turned to face the siblings. At first glance, one may mistake them as not related at all as he bore a clump of fine brunette hair. But upon further inspection, they would find the origin of the sibling's attentive gaze stems from their father.
"Dear Father, is it a crime to support one's kin during troubling times?"
"Troubling?"
"I-I-"
Elizabeth shrank slightly behind her brother as their father eyed them speculatively.
"Father, Sister is only anxious-"
"Is there anything discussed between Father and Son that will induce such anxiety?!"
"N-no father."
The man's voice staggered into silence as he turned away from the siblings and towards the now-dying fire.
"Sister you should leave-"
"No, Erick. Let her stay. It is also her business as well."