The heavy wooden door of the study creaked open, and General Francis stepped inside, his presence filling the room instantly. Theodore, who had been standing stiffly by the large oak desk, offered a respectful but subdued greeting.
"Welcome, Father," Theodore said, his voice slightly strained despite his efforts to sound welcoming. He had been waiting for what felt like an eternity since the servant had informed him of his father's imminent arrival. The minutes had stretched, each passing second, amplifying his nervousness.
"Mmm," was the only response Francis offered, his eyes already scanning the papers piled on his desk. He moved precisely as he settled into the high-backed leather chair behind the desk. He didn't look up at Theodore, immediately engaging with the letters awaiting his attention.
