Old Mrs. Covington's face turned ashen as she stared at Percival. "Did you say Gallagher?" Her voice quavered, the usual commanding tone replaced by something fragile.
Percival frowned at his grandmother's sudden change. "Yes, I'm pursuing a deal with them for our Asian expansion."
Lyra watched concern flash across Percival's face as the elderly woman's hands began to tremble. She'd never seen the formidable matriarch look so shaken.
"You should leave," Roman whispered to Lyra, trying to usher her toward the door. "Family matters."
"No!" Old Mrs. Covington's voice cut through the room. "She stays. She's one of us now."
Roman stepped back, surprise evident on his face. Lyra stood frozen, caught between retreating and staying.
"Grandmother," Percival said gently, taking the old woman's hand. "What's wrong? Do you know the Gallaghers?"
