Do you believe I am cruel?

Jasper arrived at the hotel just as the sun was setting. He was somewhat taken aback when he noticed the darkness in the room. It was as if no one had ever stayed there. The only source of light in the room was a lamp on a desk in the far corner of the hall.

Sebastian sat in his chair, staring down at something on the floor. He appeared depressed.

Jasper had always seen him as lively, full of a vibrant and authoritative aura. He wondered what had bothered him so much that it made him cancel such an important meeting and hide in the darkness.

"Mr. Hubbard," he called out, his voice soft but still audible loudly in the quiet room.

Sebastian lifted his head and met his gaze. There was only pain in his eyes.

"Take your seat." He motioned to the chair across from him.

"Thank you." Jasper sat down. His mind was flooded with questions. He didn't ask any, though, because he was waiting for him to say something first.