Chapter 14

When Linus and Ryker opened the door to Gerard's study, they noticed that both Laszlo and Jace had their heads down. The two exchanged glances before stepping inside, their eyes conveying a silent conversation about the situation. However, they found themselves at a loss for words and simply shrugged their shoulders. Having just arrived, they had no clue about what was truly happening.

Linus felt his nerves tingling as he approached Laszlo, Jace, and Gerard. He feared that Gerard might scold them for being late. As they neared, they instinctively lowered their heads and clasped their hands behind their backs.

"Why did you arrive just now? Has the watch I gave you stopped working, leaving you unaware of the time?" Gerard asked as they stood in front of him.

"Apologies, sir," Ryker and Linus responded in unison.