11. The Power Play

Elijah leaned back in his seat, a sly smile on his face, calculating the answer for Sophia.

She looked at him, her eyes searching.

"Elijah," she began, "you must be someone important to get that kind of respect from Lando Yale. Are you a big deal?"

Elijah shook his head, his expression turning serious.

"No, Sophia," he said softly.

"I’m just an orphan. The Emperor's residence isn't mine. It belongs to a friend. I’m only staying there for a while."

Sophia reached over and took his hand, squeezing it gently.

"You don’t need to explain, Elijah," she said, her voice kind.

"I’m your family now. We’re in this together. I’ll earn enough to take care of both of us."

Elijah chuckled, his eyes softening.

"You’re something else, Sophia," he said.

"But trust me, I’m not a man who needs taking care of."

Sophia smiled, her eyes warm.

"I don’t care," she replied.

"You took care of me when I had nothing. Now, it’s my turn."

Then she grinned by elbowing Elijah softly.

"C'mon, now you are my man. So, le