The celebration eventually wound down, a clear success by all accounts. Notably, Julian never did cross paths with Kevin, the man having seemingly vanished with Belle for the remainder of the evening.
Now, Julian sat in a plush chair within Lord Glaine's opulent office, posture relaxed but eyes alert. He faced the City Lord himself, who wore a congenial smile. Behind Glaine, Sebastian stood at his usual post, stern and impassive as a statue.
"Well, now that the festivities are concluded," Glaine began, steepling his fingers. "It's time I presented your group's reward. I trust you didn't think I'd forgotten?"
Julian's expression remained neutral. "The thought had crossed my mind."
Glaine let out a hearty laugh. "I'm not that forgetful, my boy!" He gestured to Sebastian without looking back. "Sebastian, if you would."
With a curt nod, Sebastian moved to the large double doors, opened one, and gestured. A moment later, a woman sauntered in.
