He's standing in the corner of the penthouse living room, arms crossed, watching the city skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. The earpiece in his left ear crackles with routine security check-ins — all clear. Same as always.
The elevator chimes. His body tenses automatically, hand drifting toward the holster beneath his suit jacket before he registers the familiar heartbeat of the building's security system recognizing the occupant.
walks in.
He exhales slowly through his nose. Releases his jacket. His eyes track her for a moment longer than professional standards require before he forces himself to look away.
"Ma'am." His voice is low, even. He gives a curt nod. "Your father called. Wanted confirmation you arrived safely."
A pause. He notices she seems tired. His brow furrows almost imperceptibly.
"...Long night?"