Chapter 113

• *Grayson*
• I patiently stood behind my desk, my eyes fixed on the door as I waited for Ria to arrive. The weight of our impending conversation settled heavily in my chest. She was not going to like what I had to say to her, that's for sure. Sadly, she was just going to have to come to terms with it. I had requested for her to meet with me in my study. I didn't think I wanted her presence in my room any longer and it was easier to have the conversation in the study anyways. It would make the discussion more formal.
• The door opened, and Ria walked in, her expression curious. I saw the wariness in her expression as she approached me. Her eyes scanned the room, searching for clues. "Grayson, what's this about?" she asked calmly. Her voice shook a little, betraying a hint of unease. I'd made my message cryptic so she would want to see me as quickly as possible. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the conversation. "Ria, I wanted to speak with you before the council meeting," I began, choosing my words carefully.