Oliver's voice cut in before Cora could respond. "Take her to the car. Make sure she is comfortable and safe. Stay with her until I am finished here."
The secretary bowed again, deeper this time, acknowledging the instruction without hesitation. "Yes, Master."
She turned to Cora and gestured gently toward the exit. "This way, please."
Cora allowed herself to be guided - partly because she did not have the energy to resist, partly because some part of her understood that staying in this warehouse while Oliver dealt with whatever he was about to deal with was not something she wanted to witness. They moved together toward the door, the secretary's hand hovering near Cora's elbow without quite touching, ready to steady her if needed.
They walked in silence for several steps before Cora found her voice.
