"Avery, you must understand. This isn't just about your personal feelings for Ethan. It's about the future of the Silvermist clan," Elder Faye's voice was cold and firm as she looked across the room at Avery. The dim candlelight flickered between them, casting long shadows on the walls of the elder's chamber. The walls felt tighter now, the air heavier.
"I do understand," Avery replied, her voice trembling slightly but determined. "But you don't get it. Ethan has always been there for me. You can't just expect me to turn my back on him."
The room was silent for a moment, the weight of her words hanging in the air. Elder Faye's gaze softened for a brief second, but her resolve quickly returned.
