Julian found Lucian in the study, poring over a stack of papers spread across the large oak desk. The room was dimly lit, the only light coming from the desk lamp, casting long shadows across the walls. Lucian looked up as Julian entered, his eyes sharp and focused.
"Something's come up," Julian said, his voice steady despite the turmoil inside him. "I need to talk to you about a few things."
Lucian leaned back in his chair, his fingers still resting on the papers. "Go ahead," he replied, his tone neutral, but Julian could sense a subtle shift in his demeanor.
Julian took a deep breath and began, "I got a call from my sister yesterday. She mentioned something about family papers and a trip to the city. Then she showed up at my building today."
Lucian's expression didn't change, but Julian noticed a slight tensing in his shoulders. "And?" Lucian prompted, his voice even, but there was an undercurrent of something Julian couldn't quite place.
