Eloise left the office with the same professional composure as always. She sat at her desk, resumed her work, reviewed the schedule, and answered a few emails while the clock slowly moved forward.

At exactly nine, August stepped out of his office with his usual commanding presence. His steps were firm, his expression unreadable. He passed her desk, glanced at her, and said a single word.

"Let's go."

He didn't stop walking, as if it were just another instruction in the middle of the day.