Carlton sat in stunned silence as Nathaniel and his friends watched, wary that the old man should relapse and have a heart attack.
He knew that Maya's grandfather was well aware of the many relatives that had been working to see him out. It was no mystery to him that someone had made an attempt on his life.
"Did you expect it?" Nathaniel couldn't help but ask. He knew that his own grandfather had been in the same position many times before and even if he was aware that people were plotting against him, it never lessened the pain of betrayal.
"I—I—" Carlton struggled to speak, but he couldn't form the words to express himself.
"You didn't," Nathaniel said as he looked down in silent mourning for the old man. He knew it hurt more when it came from the people you least expected it.
"Maybe we should go," Jay suggested as he gave Nathaniel a concerned look.
"No, stay," Carlton said as he shook his head. "I don't want to face this alone."
