Echoes of Desires

ing. His mind buzzed with the weight of what he had discovered and the risks that lay ahead. He clutched the ledger to his chest as he moved th

d as he approached, and when she saw th

g it out to her. "I kn

of it was more than just paper and ink-it was the key

nd. "Then we face it together. We're not alone in

ace for any sign of doubt. Finding

rters. The sun had begun to set, and the villa's usual clamor had quieted to a gentle

this?" he asked, eye

y. "We have to move now, before Cor

to help you get this to the magistrate. I know a man, a trusted merchant, who's loya

rcus, her hand tightening on

arcus a sharp nod. "But you must be quick. Cornelia

find him?"

near the northern gate. He sells herbs and spices, but he's

leave. They had made their decision, knowing that the outcome could mean their freedom or their ruin. T

pices and roasted meats hanging in the air. Marcus scanned the crowd, searching for a familiar

was Gaius, had a lean, weathered face that spoke of years spent o

ng his voice low. "I need y

on and a hint of curiosity. "You're r

by with a mixture of hope and fear in her eyes. "Take this to

e," he said. "But you'll have to move quickly. Cornelia is watching, and if she

hanged a glance. "Th

ced by hushed voices and worried glances. Cornelia had called for a meeting with the guards, her

he approached the door, the weight of anticipation pressing against his chest. When he entered,

. Her eyes were sharp, but her voice wa

nching. "I don't know

k you do." She stepped closer, her eyes narrowing. "There

naged to keep his composure. "I am

"And yet, you've found time to meddle where you

t there was none. Cornelia had always been two s

, and a voice rang out.

nd fearful. Cornelia's smile faltered

ifting to her daughter. "I was just about

the truth-there was no way out now. Cornelia had alre