Julian opened the door after Franz knocked, as if he had been standing on the other side waiting for the sound.
The twins stepped in first, already familiar with the layout. Lily went toward the kitchen without hesitation. Leo headed down the hallway toward the study at the far end, moving with quiet purpose.
The apartment had not changed. The floors were dark, the bookshelves uneven, the large windows reflecting the river lights across the water. Nothing felt arranged for guests. It felt lived in.
Arianne removed her gloves as she crossed the threshold. Franz took her coat before she asked, his hand resting briefly at her elbow when she stepped aside to let Leo pass. The contact lasted only a moment longer than necessary.
Gilbert noticed. He did not comment. He merely shifted his weight against the counter and lifted his glass.
"You're on time," Julian said as he shut the door.
"We didn't account for traffic," Arianne replied.
Leo had already disappeared into the study.
