Joe led the way to the alpha office after breakfast.
The hallway was quiet, their footsteps muffled against the thick runner rugs. Abby could smell polished wood and old paper before they even stepped inside.
The office was long and rectangular, dominated by a massive desk positioned in front of a floor-to-ceiling window. Pale light spilled through the glass, casting long beams across the floor. Two imposing bookcases lined one wall, filled with leather-bound volumes and carefully labeled binders. A faint scent of cedar and ink hung in the air.
There was a couch and several armchairs arranged near the desk, the leather worn in places. A long conference table stood closer to the door, its surface gleaming.
Evan sat behind the desk but rose immediately when they entered. Riley was alread
