Richard stood, his movements precise and measured. Marcus followed suit, his usual lighthearted energy noticeably subdued as they exited the room.
The tension lingered as they stepped into the hallway, the air felt lighter outside.
"You alright?" Marcus asked quietly, his voice breaking the silence.
"I'm fine," Richard replied, his tone curt.
"Think he bought it?" Marcus muttered as they continue walking down the hall.
"Doesn't matter," Richard replied, his voice low. "We have a job to do."
Marcus couldn't help but glance at his partner, a flicker of concern in his usually carefree eyes. Richard's stoic mask never wavered, but Marcus knew better than to take it at face value.
Inside the meeting room, the tension lingered even after Richard and Marcus had left. Armand's sharp gaze remained fixed on the door for a long moment, his fingers drumming lightly against the polished table. His expression was thoughtful, but the frown tugging at his brow betrayed his unease.
