The silence in the hallway stretched long enough for the ticking wall clock nearby to become uncomfortably loud. The two guardians stood like pillars in front of the double doors, their matching dark suits absorbing the lamplight. Kaidren remained still, his plain gaze level but unreadable.
It was Banker Rex who finally broke the stalemate.
"Mr. Kaidren," Rex began, his voice smooth but formal, "if you'd prefer not to show the contents of your bag, I can notify the manager and ask whether he will still permit your entry."
Rex's squared glasses caught the light as he adjusted them, the precise gesture restoring a touch of authority to his otherwise surprised expression. His tone was carefully balanced—firm enough to maintain procedure, yet accommodating enough to diffuse the tension beginning to coil in the air.
Kaidren didn't hesitate. He gave a slight nod, his voice flat. "That's fine."
