— — — — —
Mateo walked back through the corridor toward Santiago's office. He knocked once with the back of his knuckles and entered, waiting only for the briefest silence that served as permission.
Santiago sat at his desk, documents open, pen in hand. His eyes lifted when Mateo entered and held him there, steady and unyielding.
"She is settled, Master," Mateo said, hands at his sides, voice level. "The room is secure."
Santiago's eyes lingered on him for a moment before returning to the page in front of him.
"Good." He turned the document over. "You can rest."
That was all.
Mateo gave a short nod, turned, and left. The door closed behind him with a sound so small it barely registered.
