Percival's face was a mask of careful neutrality, but his eyes had darkened with suspicion. The sudden tension in his shoulders told Lyra she'd touched on something significant.
"I asked you a question," he said, voice deceptively calm. "Why would you ask if I was kidnapped?"
Before Lyra could respond, the door swung open. Liliana Pierce stood in the doorway, her police uniform crisp despite her obvious discomfort.
"I'm sorry to interrupt," she said, stepping into the room. Her gaze darted between them, sensing the tension. "I came to speak with you both. Officially."
Percival's expression shifted seamlessly back into the controlled CEO persona, his personal demons tucked away. "Officer Pierce. I thought you were on duty."
"I am." Liliana straightened her shoulders. "This is part of it."
Lyra recognized the determination in the woman's posture. Whatever had brought her back wasn't simple.
"Have a seat," Lyra offered, gesturing to the chair opposite Percival.
