In a small cottage, wooden logs crackle as they burn in the fireplace. Although the cottage was modest in size, the furnishings were luxurious. It was warm and dimly lit in the bitter cold nights.
A man reclined in an armchair in this dimly lit room, sipping his coffee and relishing in the peaceful setting. On the centre table there were two cups. One was his, and the other belonged to someone who was about to pay him a visit.
Listening to a knock on his door, he went to open it and met the pair of blue eyes staring mysteriously at him.
"Mr Condrad, are you surprised to see me?" Shane inquired, a sly grin on his face.
"Mr Aldrich had already informed me about your arrival," he replied, moving aside and giving him a way.
"Ah, that oldie," Shane grumbled as he walked inside the house, "he's ruining my surprise streak."
