Empire of Ash — Episode 6

I let out a cold laugh. Julian Romano, tell me. Am I the one? The second Julian saw me, he stepped away from Clara.

Didn't I tell you to let the elevator go? He forced his face calm. How did this blow up into something this big? Everyone looked at me at once.

Mr. Romano actually knows her? He's still on Clara's side. Clara's eyes went red instantly. She grabbed Julian's sleeve, voice soft and wronged.

Mr. Romano, you said everyone in the house has to follow the rules I set. Even if you know her, she doesn't get an exception. Besides, I was only looking out for you. An outsider with no clearance got into your private elevator.

What if she was carrying a weapon, poison, or a tracker? Julian's expression softened. He turned to me. Oh, Dana, she's just strict about rules.

I'll have her apologize. Let it go, all right? Apologize? Clara's face darkened. She shrugged off Julian's hand.

Mr. Romano, aren't you here to stand up for me? Why should I apologize? Who the hell does she think she is? I was protecting your lift.

What did I do wrong? I gave Julian a slow look. Your lift. Julian, this house isn't your playground for special treatment.

Why would you think I want her apology? Who said I was going to apologize? You're not even formally in the house. Since when do our rules need your opinion?

Julian finally noticed I was truly angry. Enough! Shut your mouth! Then he pulled me aside and lowered his voice.

Adria, she's just a kid. Don't make this bigger than it is. If you make an example out of a young girl on your first day, who will ever follow you after that?

Brows tightened. I shook him off. Julian, she's writing her own house rules now. And you think I'm the one overreacting?