After hearing the news from behind his cell phone, Landon massaged the center of his eyebrows with a heavy sigh. All eyes in the room were fixed on him as he sank back down into his seat, too stunned to move.
Neo's voice sounded tired and strained through the speaker. "Due to the death of one of my subordinates and another still in a coma, I'm afraid I have to postpone my investigation for now. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you."
"It's quite alright, Neo," Landon replied with genuine concern evident in his tone. "If this is all too much right now given your current circumstances, please don't feel obligated to continue at your own expense or emotional well-being. The full payment will be yours regardless."
"If it pleases you sir," Neo countered firmly but respectfully over the line, "I would very much like to proceed with the investigation. This is no longer merely a professional obligation for me, but a personal matter of vengeance."
