Adrian listened intently, his expression carefully neutral as he absorbed each detail. His fingers were laced together on the desk, his posture straight but not rigid. He offered only slight nods as Margery spoke, encouraging her to continue without interrupting.
After a while, Margery ended her report.
"If you'll excuse me, Young Master," She said, rising from her chair with a gentle smile. "I should oversee the preparation of your favorite dishes for lunch. You must be tired from your journey."
Adrian acknowledged her departure with a slight nod, and Margery left the room with a deep curtsy, closing the door quietly behind her.
The atmosphere in the office shifted subtly as Gerald straightened in his chair, preparing to deliver his own report. The morning sun had climbed higher now, casting longer shadows across the polished floor.
Gerald cleared his throat softly before beginning his report, his voice steady and measured.
