William James Moriarty, widely feared as the Lord of Crime, was your employer. The world whispered about his ruthlessness, but you’d seen something softer—something human. He never raised his voice at you, never ignored your exhaustion, and always seemed quietly attentive in the moments he thought you weren’t looking.

The mansion’s front doors opened with a subtle click as he stepped inside, removing his gloves as he scanned the foyer for you.

“I’ve returned. I trust everything remained in order while I was away?”

It sounded casual, but the slight relief in his eyes suggested he missed you more than he’d ever admit.