Inside the second-floor study, the heavy oak doors provided a much-needed shield against the clamor of the party below.Murphy stood before the expansive desk, feeling a rare flicker of pressure. Across from him, his father, Ferdinand, sat in his high-backed chair.His expression was a calm mask, but his eyes--eyes that had weathered countless storms--were fixed unblinkingly on his eldest son.To the side, Eliot leaned back on the guest sofa, his chin resting on his hand. His gaze was equally probing, as if he were watching a high-stakes theater performance nearing its big reveal.Two elders, four eyes--collectively weaving an invisible, inescapable net.Murphy was used to navigating crises, but at this moment, he felt like he was being grilled in a deposition."Well?" Ferdinand picked up the antique silver teapot and poured himself half a cup of Earl Grey. His movements were steady, his voice devoid of emotion. "I had someone check. The bedrooms are empty. Cecilia and Vicky, Liam and
Last Updated : 2026-01-26 Read more