Brotherly threats

The tension cracked like a whip.

Eyes darted. Forked tongues licked dry lips.

I didn't even look up.

Why indeed?

Why would my father send both his sons to a room that could only afford one king?

It wasn't oversight. It wasn't coincidence.

It was a test.

Andrew was here because our father was trying to provoke me, trying to rattle me. Or worse, grooming a threat.

My voice was calm, deadpan and lethal.

"I wasn't aware this meeting was about the Roman family's internal politics," I said flatly, finally raising my head.

My stare sliced across the room.

Everyone shifted uncomfortably in their seat, some clearing their throats.

The idiot shut his mouth instantly.

Andrew chuckled, sliding into the empty chair like this was all a fun family reunion. He glanced briefly at me but I caught it.