The door to Ethan's office slowly opened, followed by a polite knock that came a moment too late.
A woman from the reception staff stepped inside, her posture straight and professional, as if aware that she was interrupting something important.
She paused briefly before speaking, making sure she had Ethan's attention.
"Sir Ethan," she said, "I've come with a visitor. There is a woman outside who wishes to meet you."
Ethan lifted his gaze from the documents on his desk.
Five hours had passed since noon, and the sky outside the office windows had begun to take on a warmer, orange tint.
The timing alone made him narrow his eyes slightly.
He had been expecting this. Based on the estimate, the woman who had helped him purchase the Spirit Crystals should have returned by now, whether with good news or bad.
Judging from the receptionist's cautious tone, Ethan already had a feeling which one it was.
"Please let her in," Ethan said calmly.
