The study was quiet once more, thick velvet curtains filtering the morning sun into a soft amber glow.
This warm light cast long shadows across the bookshelves and polished mahogany desk, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and heavy with unspoken words.
Arthur sat comfortably, one leg crossed over the other, savoring deep red wine from a crystalline glass.
The rich aroma of aged paper, oak, and a hint of spice from the wine lingered in the air like an old secret waiting to be shared.
Across from him, Billy occupied a leather armchair, stiff and uncomfortable, his back straight as if he were awaiting judgment.
The weight of everything he had just revealed hung heavily between them: his humiliation, his realization, his guilt.
Arthur's expression remained calm; a slight smile curled at the corners of his lips as he regarded Billy with measured interest.
