Yulian's eyes bore into Michelle's. "Elliot doesn't have that burden in the first place, and we've made sure that he wouldn't have any in the future. That's how we've kept him safe."
Michelle's hands clenched into fists on the table. "That's just—that's just sophistry, big brother! I can't believe you're all in on this. You're supposed to be the reasonable one!"
Christian, who had been silent throughout the exchange, set down his glass with enough force to make it click against the table. He looked at everyone as if making his statement.
He firmly said, "We have let Elliot live as he pleased. We've given him freedom, opportunities, and a normal life. This and only this is the only thing we will keep from him. And that's final."
"I don't understand you people!" Michelle's chair scraped back violently as she stood. Her silver hair swirled around her as she spun on her heel. "I don't understand any of you!"
