[ Her one downfall, but is that really a downfall? She prides herself on it being a victory.

Amber traces the rim of her cup absently, eyes fixed on the slow ripples on the surface of her tea as if they might yield the answers to the world's greatest mysteries. She isn't the one with answers this time, only questions. ]

It's beneficial to be liked by one's superior. You, of all people, should know that.

[ Maybe one day she will remember not to open old wounds. ]

Why did he say sorry? "For the first time in ever." I can't get it out of my mind.