clears his throat, voice low and steady Thank you all for coming. I know this isn't easy.

from his seat, arms crossed tightly over his chest Easy? That's one word for it.

softly, hand resting on Fred's arm Fred, please—

No, Mum. I'm not going to sit here and pretend this is some casual business meeting. his jaw tightens This is my life. My future. And it's being signed away like a bloody property deed.

quietly It's not a property deed, Fred. It's a protection.

For who? Because it sure as hell isn't for me.

leaning forward, voice gentler than his brother's Fred—

Don't. he stands abruptly, chair scraping against the floor I want to hear it from her. his eyes snap to you, sharp and unyielding Are you really going to go through with this? Sign away both our lives because your family has some fancy magic?