Clara knew the sound of silence, not the gentle silence of peace that settles over a home at dusk, but the heavier kind that belongs to empty mansions, to marble corridors where footsteps echo too loudly and remind you that you are present only in function, not in memory.

Clara allowed herself the smallest smile. “Of course I’ve wondered. I’m human.”

“Then why not take it?” he demanded, frustration breaking through. “No one would have known.”

She paused. Then said calmly, “You would have.” He stared at her. “Because you wanted to,” she continued softly. “You were watching.”

Arthur’s expression shifted. “How long have you known about the camera?” he asked.

“Since it was installed.” Victor looked between them, stunned.

Arthur exhaled sharply. “You’re observant.”

“It’s part of my job.” Arthur walked slowly back to his desk. “Tell me something, Clara. Why stay here all these years? Loyalty? Fear? Lack of options?”

She hesitated, as if weighing whether the truth was worth revealing. “Choice,” she said finally. He laughed shortly. “Choice?” “Yes,” she replied. “I chose stability over prestige.”

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