Alex held his gaze for another moment, then nodded and stepped back, releasing the tension.
"Please, Alex. Sit." Viktor gestured to the leather chairs arranged in a conversational circle. "We have much to discuss. And I suspect you have questions."
Alex moved to the central chair... positioning himself naturally as the focus without having to claim it explicitly... and settled in with Enhanced grace. Coffee had already been prepared, clearly expecting this to be a substantial discussion.
The others took their positions. Viktor sat across from Alex. Damien and Dimitri flanked them. Andre and Pavel remained standing initially, professional distance but close enough to hear.
Alex took a moment, letting the silence build while he studied Viktor with Enhanced perception that seemed to look through him rather than just at him.
Viktor bore the scrutiny calmly, no discomfort, no evasion. Just patient waiting.
Finally, Alex spoke, his voice quiet but carrying weight.
