I carefully examined Conrad Thornton's face as he opened his door. His handshake was clammy, his smile forced. Dark circles hung beneath bloodshot eyes that couldn't quite meet mine.
"Welcome, Liam," he said, voice wavering slightly. "Please, come in."
Conrad's usually immaculate home felt different today. No servants bustled about. The air hung heavy with tension.
"I appreciate the invitation," I said, deliberately keeping my tone light. "Though it was rather unexpected."
Conrad's shoulders tensed as he led me to the dining room. "Yes, well, I thought we could discuss some... business matters over food."
The dining room was set for three, though Conrad had mentioned nothing about another guest. I noted it silently, filing away the detail as I took my seat.
"You seem troubled, Conrad," I observed, watching him fidget with his napkin. "Is everything alright?"
"Fine. Everything's fine," he answered too quickly. "Just... some family matters. Nothing for you to worry about."
