Edward slowly turned toward Roosevelt, his expression calm yet sharp. His voice was steady.
"Everyone said I have been resisting it passively. Do you know why?"
A sombre silence encased the entire room as everyone's gaze was drawn towards Edward.
Roosevelt's brows pulled together. He understood this was not just a question, but a test. One wrong answer might crush the expectations placed on him. He took a breath.
"It's because you are waiting for me to take over. Though this period is troublesome, if I manage to sail through the waves, I can gain recognition and create a strong authoritative position."
For a heartbeat no one moved. Edward's stern features softened and a faint smile appeared, a rare thing.
"Good. Good. At least you have the brain to think."
"????"
"Do I look really dumb?"
"Who knows?"Edward chuckled.
Roosevelt exhaled softly, tension easing from his shoulders.
"So how long?" Roosevelt asked, voice level.
