"Indeed," the Earl confirmed, his voice steady, his gaze fixed on David. The words carried the weight of an unspoken acknowledgement, a subtle yet powerful recognition of the young man's wisdom. Lord Hilton had intended to test both of his sons in this moment of conflict, and David had emerged the wiser.
A quiet thought crossed the Earl's mind: Did Katrina tell him about the pact between our families? He found it hard to believe. Katrina was known for her discretion, for keeping such critical information to herself, never exploiting the merit granted to her through her grandfather's sacrifice.
"Katrina," Lord Hilton's voice cut through the chamber, commanding the attention of all present. "Step forward."
