Melanie nodded faintly at Max's question, but her unease only grew when his gaze shifted away from her. His eyes locked on Adam.
"Adam," Max said, his tone quieter than usual, almost reluctant. "If you have a few minutes… can we talk?"
Adam narrowed his eyes slightly, reading the strain in his voice. "Is it urgent?" he asked, slow and deliberate.
It was the first time Adam had seen Max look uneasy. The man was usually sharp, confident, never wavering. That flicker of discomfort on his face made Adam's stomach tighten. Something was wrong.
Even so, Adam nodded, exchanging a glance with Melanie before rising. She gave the faintest nod of encouragement, though her fingers clung to his shirt for just a second longer than usual.
