Derek's lips twisted into a brief smile, his gaze cold but calm, "Sorry for keeping you two waiting. I was wrapping up an important meeting where I…" His expression darkened, a weight settling over his face as he sat down, "…came to learn some very disappointing things. Matters that demanded my immediate attention."
Rachel and Cecilia shared a tense glance, their hearts threatening to pound in unison.
Rachel, attempting to look concerned yet casual, leaned forward, "I'm sorry to hear that, Dad. What happened? Was it about the Coven of the Damned kidnapping one of the students you were transporting? Mom told me a little about it."
