A ripple of laughter broke loose before people could stop themselves — nervous laughter, but laughter all the same.
Phei's smile stayed soft. "Why do you think I wasn't surprised when you defended Marcus at every turn tonight when I answered or said things that might damage his public image? It's common knowledge that most Legacy families — apart from the few powerful enough to breathe without permission — bow to Heavenchild whims. So, who's to say their heirs don't bow to the next Heavenchild heir as well?"
The implication hung there poisonous beneath the lights.
The anchor inhaled carefully, he choose his next words rather than glide into them. "Isn't it possible," he said slowly, "that you're simply… bitter? That you're accusing Marcus Heavenchild of bullying based on conspiracy theories rather than evidence?"
Phei smiled as though the question genuinely amused him.
"Maybe," he said.
The anchor paused.
