There's a flicker of something in his gaze I don't recognize as he studies the image of Mercedes.

"For your trouble, I believe I should also leave you the bulk of my finances for agreeing to take on Mercedes in my absence," I jest.

"That won't be necessary." Judge smirks. "It would be a pleasure to tame such a wild mare."

My eyebrow arches at his insinuation, and I find it strange that he should mention Mercedes in such a way. He has always been cold to her. Respectful, but cold.

"You would have your work cut out for you," I assure him. "She is difficult, even in the best of times. I'm afraid she has become set in her spoiled ways, and now I'm not certain it can be undone."

"Anything can be undone, given a firm enough hand," Judge remarks dryly. "Should you require assistance, I am available to discipline. As you know, it is a specialty of mine, and in cases like these, it’s not uncommon to have a third party intervene. As her brother, you have a weakness for her that I don't possess. There would be no familial affection to taint my black heart."

I consider his suggestion and find it a valid argument. Mercedes is on a path of destruction and has been for some time. With Ivy in my care and my job within The Society, I have little time to devote to keeping my sister in check. It is something I can keep in mind, should she continue to cause problems.

"How is the little hellion, anyway?" Judge asks. "Still pining for Van der Smit?"

"Van der Smit?" I laugh. "I did not realize you were so informed on the matters of Mercedes's heart."

"It is widely spread gossip." He waves his hand dismissively. "Everyone in IVI has heard how he passed over the great Mercedes De La Rosa in favor of another woman. The rumor is she was quite spurned by the events."

"Yes, I suppose she was." I frown. "But Mercedes does not seem to form attachments too deeply to anyone. I think it was merely her pride that was wounded."

Judge nods as if this perspective satisfies him. "I take it she is back at the manor then?"

"For now," I concede. "She has been tasked with mentoring Ivy in her role as an upper-echelon wife. I suppose that should keep her busy for some time at least."

"Well, that's something," Judge agrees. "Idle hands are the devil's work."

"That's what they say."

There's a tap at the door, and it opens, surprising us both when it’s Mercedes herself. She moves to enter the office but pauses mid-step when she sees Judge sitting across from me.

"I didn't realize you had company." She folds her arms across her chest and glances at him curiously. "Judge, it's always a pleasure to see you."