章 334: Price to Pay

The tense silence stretched on for several minutes, a palpable weight in the air.

Just as the atmosphere seemed almost unbearable, the door swung open and a staff member entered the room carrying a tray of refreshments.

The clinking of glasses and the aroma of the beverages seemed to defuse the tension that had been building.

The timing was perfect.

Riz offered a small, almost imperceptible smile, a subtle gesture inviting Alexander to partake in the offered respite. "Please, enjoy the refreshments," he said, his tone carrying a hint of diplomacy, a temporary pause in their confrontation.

Alexander's fingers gracefully curled around a glass, the cool crystal meeting his touch as he raised it to his lips.

The tinkling sound of glass against glass resonated in the room, intertwining with the weight of their conversation.