Hidden Thorns

The room fell silent except for the ticking of the old antique clock.

Rosa's expression became serious, and she locked eyes with Hector for a long while before softening her tone. "Hector, I know you probably think I'm saying this because I favor the second branch."

"I—" Hector wanted to comment.

"Don't speak, let me finish." Rosa raised her hand to stop Hector from speaking.

She took two deep bre