"You've done well to bring this to light, David," Lord Hilton intoned, his voice steady and measured, but there was no mistaking the underlying gravity. "But do not think this absolves you entirely. Your actions, regardless of your cause, have consequences."
David inclined his head in acknowledgement, the weight of his father's words heavy in the air. Yet, within his gaze, there was no trace of fear—only a steadfast determination that refused to waver. He had played his hand with the tale of his mother's salvation, and though it had turned the tides in his favour for now, he knew the game was far from over.
