I'm sorry Mom

Richard stood, his movements precise and measured. Marcus followed suit, his usual lighthearted energy noticeably subdued as they exited the room.

The tension lingered as they stepped into the hallway, the air felt lighter outside.

"You alright?" Marcus asked quietly, his voice breaking the silence.

"I'm fine," Richard replied, his tone curt.

"Think he bought it?" Marcus muttered as they continue walking down the hall.

"Doesn't matter," Richard replied, his voice low. "We have a job to do."

Marcus couldn't help but glance at his partner, a flicker of concern in his usually carefree eyes. Richard's stoic mask never wavered, but Marcus knew better than to take it at face value.