A Rival's Specter and a Family Mandate

Elara's POV

"Zachary is principled, but he's also intrigued by genuine talent," Julian said, leaning back in his chair, his fingers drumming nervously against the conference table.

My stomach twisted at the implication. "You think he might take Vivienne as an apprentice?"

Julian's expression softened. "Look, I don't want to alarm you, but if she has the skills to back up her credentials... Zachary doesn't care about personal drama. He cares about advancing the field."

I stared at the revised proposal on my screen, trying to push away thoughts of Vivienne charming her way into Zachary's good graces. My half-sister had always possessed a magnetic quality that drew people in.

"Elara? You still with me?" Julian's voice pulled me from my thoughts.

"Sorry." I shook my head. "I need to focus on our work, not on whatever games Damien and Vivienne are playing."

Julian nodded. "That's the spirit. Besides, Newman reached out to us first. That's something."