"That was the plan," Eve said.
He looked at her.
She held his gaze and waited.
His smile shifted slightly. Still warm. But more attentive now.
"Straight to business," he said. "I appreciate that." He set down his tea. "The Merchant faction has been watching your progress with significant interest since the claim hearing. Your petition was well-constructed. Your conduct at the hearing was impressive. And the ascension, of course, changes the political landscape considerably."
"It does," Eve said. "Which is why I wanted this meeting."
"Indeed." He folded his hands on the table. "What is it you're hoping the Merchant faction can offer you, Lady Evangeline?"
"I'm not looking for what you can offer me," she said. "I'm looking for what we can build together."
He raised an eyebrow.
