The "family meeting" in Alexander's study felt less like a discussion and more like a war council. Alexander stood behind his imposing desk, a general before a map. Benjamin stood rigidly to the side, having laid out his tactical proposal. Christopher leaned against a bookshelf, his arms crossed, the doctor in him clearly at odd with the brother. Anna sat on the edge of an armchair, vibrating with nervous energy. Alistair and Eleanor sat hand in hand on the sofa, their faces pale but determined.
Cameron stood in the center of it all, feeling the weight of their gazes.
"Benjamin's assessment is correct," Alexander said, his voice cutting through the tension. "A cornered enemy attack desperately and directly. A controlled engagement is much better than a reactive one." He fixed his eyes on Cameron. "The plan is a huge risk to you. The decision is all yours."
