The knock came like thunder despite its restraint, echoing through the walls with that unnatural authority the enforcers carried with them like a badge of fear. Blake and Rose stood in the living room now, Celena between them. The girl clutched her mother's hand, watching the hallway as if sensing a monster behind the door.
"I'll get it," Reggie muttered, already moving.
"No," Rose said quietly.
Her tone made Blake glance at her. She was calm—too calm. Eyes like still ponds before a storm. She stepped forward, smoothing a few strands of Celena's hair down before placing a kiss on her forehead. Then she turned to Blake.
"Take her to Nana. Now."
Blake hesitated. "Rose—"
"Now," she said more sharply, eyes never leaving the door.
Blake took Celena's hand reluctantly and guided her back toward the kitchen. Reggie stood frozen in the hall, watching Rose as though trying to gauge her intent.
"You're not thinking of—"
"They're weak-minded," Rose said. "Lower ranks always are."
