She wishes her parents were alive so she could ask them. What would her mom say? And her father? As an Elysian, her father should, in theory, want to protect the Registration at all costs. But if Zach was right and he was questioning that, then maybe she should too?

The possibility that things could be worse, that thousands could die, is too big a risk. If nothing changes, then nothing can get worse.

If Eric tries to change things, even if he thinks he can do so without threatening the Registration and his power, then things could get far worse. His thirst for power may blind him to the dangers.

Maybe she should give him a fake letter. Change some words. But maybe he knows how to figure out the code and he just needs the right words. Maybe he would know the letter is wrong.

The door opens and Lynell flinches, turning to face it. Two guards are standing there, Zach between them. He looks at her quickly before looking away.

“Let’s go,” he says.

“Where are we going?”

“Downstairs. Lunch.” Zach’s words are brisk.

“What’s going on?”

“Dad likes to have the family together for lunch. Says it keeps you focused on what really matters.” He turns and walks out the door. The glares from the guards propel Lynell forward to follow him.

He leads them to the dining room, and she sits in the same chair as the night before and looks around.

“He’ll be here,” Zach says, probably noticing her search for Eric. “Work keeps him late sometimes.”

Lynell meets Zach’s eyes. “You really eat with him often?”

Zach shrugs. “He’s my dad. He’s not all bad.”

Lynell narrows her eyes. “I’m assuming that if I don’t give him the letter, it won’t look pretty for me.”

At that, the doors open and Eric walks in, smiling and holding two plates. He sets one in front of Lynell and the other in front of his chair. She watches Eric, noticing how he seems to occupy all the space around him. Behind him comes a young lady with Zach’s plates and the drinks. Lynell looks down at her plate, filled with a toasted sandwich and salad.

“Sorry to keep you waiting,” he says. “Meeting ran long. How was your morning? Were you able to explore?” he asks Lynell.

“I didn’t know I was allowed.”

Eric leans forward and gives her an exasperated look. “Of course, you’re allowed. This could be your house as much as Zach’s.”

“But I’m a prisoner.” She crosses her arms and leans back in her chair.

“More like a guest I’m not sure I can trust. Please try to understand where I’m coming from,” Eric says. He reaches out and grabs the salad dressing from the middle of the table. He pours a generous amount over his salad as he talks. “Even though I’d like you to be a member of this family, unfortunately, I don’t know you. You could betray me at any moment. You are not loyal to the Elysian name like Zach here.”