Two Years Later…
The boardroom was silent as the final slide of the presentation faded from the screen. Bast stood up without a word, adjusting the cuffs of his crisp black suit. His expression was as cold and unreadable as ever.
Ethan watched him from across the room, worry flickering in his eyes. Rico exchanged a glance with him before both men rose from their seats.
Ethan (hesitantly): "Bast…"
Bast paused by the door, his hand resting on the handle. He didn't turn around.
Ethan (gently): "Can we have dinner tonight?"
Bast (flatly): "I'm busy."
With that, he walked out.
Rico let out a quiet sigh, watching the door slowly close behind him.
Rico: "He's losing it… working day and night like a machine."
Ethan: "Ever since Kai's kidnapping, Bast hasn't been the same. It's like something inside him broke. I haven't seen him smile once in two years…"
Rico looked down, his voice low.