497 Dencia opened her mouth to respond, but Margaret raised a hand to stop her. “Save it. I don’t want to hear excuses. I want you all out. Now.” James took a step forward, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “Lady Margaret, please listen—” “No, James,” she interrupted, her voice trembling w

499 The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife. Darwin’s still figure lay motionless on the hospital bed, the faint beeping of the heart monitor the only sound breaking the silence. Lady Margaret Wettin sat rigid in her chair, her tear-streaked face pale but defiant. The air felt

501 The sitting room was quiet except for the rhythmic ticking of an ornate grandfather clock in the corner. Margaret Wettin sat stiffly in her armchair, her fingers drumming impatiently against the armrest, each tap echoing like a command. James stood by the door, his posture rigid, awaiting her n

503 As the door closed behind him, Margaret sank back into her chair, her hands trembling slightly with anger. “I’m surrounded by incompetence,” she said bitterly, her voice low. James pulled out a chair and sat across from her, his expression calm but thoughtful. “Lady Margaret,” he began gently

505 Dr. Whitaker nodded quickly, his glasses slipping precariously down his nose. His hands fumbled with the clipboard he was clutching, his knuckles white from the pressure. “Yes, Lady Margaret. I—I understand. I’ll speak with the team immediately. Perhaps we can adjust the treatment plan or—” “D