SILAS

I made my way toward my father's study, already knowing the conversation ahead wouldn't be pleasant.

The moment I stepped inside, I noticed the change.

Viktor sat behind his desk, maintaining his usual posture—the same rigid, controlled authority he'd used to intimidate everyone for years. But there was a weakness beneath it now that he couldn't completely hide.

He looked pale.

His gaze lifted as I approached. "You're late."

I ignored the comment and pulled the door shut behind me. "You wanted to see me."

His eyes swept over me before narrowing slightly. "I heard you left Matthew Sterling's yacht early last night."

I said nothing. Of course he...