THE GENERAL'S DISGRACED HEIR

Chapter 245 THE ARCHON'S DEMAND

David exhaled deeply, leaning back against his chair as he processed everything that had transpired. His gaze wandered to the ceiling before falling on Mariana, who sat next to him with an expectant expression. Her gratitude was palpable. She clasped her hands tightly, as though

"Ah, David," Salomonis greeted, gesturing toward the seat across from him. "Please, sit. Would you care for some wine? It's an excellent vintage."

David shook his head politely. "No, thank you."

Salomonis shrugged, lifting his goblet in mock toast. "Suit yourself. More for me, then."

The awkwardness of the moment hung in the air, amplified by the sound of Salomonis taking an exaggerated sip from his glass. David glanced at Elara, who remained silent, her gaze locked onto him like a hawk studying its prey. He shifted uncomfortably, resisting the urge to fidget under the weight of her stare.

Finally, Elara broke the silence, her voice calm but laced with an edge that made David's palms sweat. "This is our second meeting," she said, her crimson gaze intensifying. "The first, under… unusual circumstances."

David swallowed hard, his mind racing as he tried to decipher her tone. Before he could respond, her next words landed like a lightning strike.

"How will you take responsibility for kissing me?"

David's jaw dropped, his heart skipping several beats. "I—what?" he stammered, his face burning as he scrambled for an explanation.

Salomonis erupted into laughter, his voice booming through the room as he slapped his knee. "Oh, this is gold! The mighty David, speechless!"

David shot a pleading look toward Salomonis, but the older man waved him off, thoroughly enjoying the spectacle. Elara remained stoic, her gaze unwavering, as though awaiting a response that would dictate his fate. Enjoy exclusive content from empire

The room felt suffocating, the tension thick enough to cut with a blade. David could only pray that whatever came next wouldn't seal his doom.