Caden’s approach
Caden approached Elara, asking for her cooperation in settling their financial matters quickly. ‘We need to get this sorted out,’ he said, his tone unexpectedly courteous.

Elara nodded, keeping her expression neutral. ‘Of course, let’s figure this out together,’ she agreed.
Internally, she braced herself for the negotiation ahead. His eagerness to get things done quickly played into her hands.
She carefully listened, making note of his underlying desperation. Each word he spoke was a clue.