The light from the crystal chandeliers gradually dimmed, and the clamorous background noise slowly faded away.
The guests began to leave.
Luxury cars formed a long line before the portico, their taillights streaking red through the darkness.
The elites, who had just been trading business cards on the dance floor and holding court by the buffet tables, now disappeared into their private vehicles, their faces showing either satisfaction or regret.
Saint Claude Manor fell quiet once more, but it was a more oppressive kind of silence.
Leo hadn't left.
He had been asked to stay.
Evelyn led him through the empty main hall to a study in the manor's west wing.
Dark walnut wall panels, entire walls of bookshelves, and a heavy Persian carpet.
Leo stood in the center of the room, in no hurry to sit, his gaze slowly sweeping over his surroundings.
Just then, Roosevelt's voice sounded in his mind.
"Look at this room, Leo."
"This was once a man's domain."
