---
"Sir, I couldn't stop him," Tyler's voice echoed in the room, breathless, as Shane turned to face him. Tyler was just a stand-in for James, but the confusion in Shane's eyes was evident. He barely had time to register Tyler's words before the door flew open, and his uncle barged in, uninvited and unwelcome.
"What are you doing here?" Shane's voice was low but filled with venom, his sharp gaze narrowing as he took in the sight of the older man.
"Heh, boy, no need to get all worked up." His uncle's grin was sly, dripping with the same smug arrogance Shane had despised for years. "I'm just here to help," he added, his voice oozing mock sincerity. He gestured toward the man standing just behind him, and the stranger stepped forward slowly, almost timidly.
