Julian lived on the top floor of a mid-rise overlooking the river. The view stretched wide, but it wasn't much to look at—just buildings layered together, lights flicking on as evening settled. Inside was no different. Dark floors. Plain furniture. Shelves crowded with books and old records. Nothing decorative. Nothing arranged for show.
When Franz knocked, the door opened almost immediately.
"You're on time," Julian said.
"We usually are," Arianne replied, stepping in first.
The twins followed without hesitation. They had been here before, back when their parents were still alive. Leo didn't stop at the entrance. Lily didn't either. The place wasn't unfamiliar enough to make them cautious.
Gilbert sat near the island with a glass of water, posture relaxed but alert, as always. Nate stood at the stove, stirring something in a shallow pan.
"Leo," Nate said over his shoulder, "still building machines?"
Leo gave a short nod.
