LUCIAN
My meetings ran later than planned, and by the time I walked through the front doors of the house, everywhere was silent, save for the distant, muffled sounds of a television. George was waiting in the foyer the moment I stepped inside.
“Where are the boys?” I asked, loosening my tie as I walked past him.
“In the playroom, sir.”
I nodded and moved farther in before stopping. “George, a minute in my office.”
“Yes, sir.”
I ascended the staircase, stopping briefly at the playroom door. The boys were sprawled on the oversized floor cushions, oblivious to the world. Seeing them safe always acted as a momentary reset for my nerves.
Satisfied, I closed the door softly and continued to my office. I took my seat while George remained standing, hands clasped behind his back.
“Dinner
