Tim approached Bob first, surprised by his sudden speechlessness. The reality of what had transpired downstairs had yet to settle in, and so he struggled to comprehend what he had heard. Reading this on his face, Bob smiled even more fervently as he clasped both Tim and Marcus on the shoulder before inviting them to sit on the couches.

“I know it’s early, but I’d say this morning is worth toasting!” he said, pouring them all generous drams of whisky.

Tim remained silent as Bob filled the glasses, but Marcus could not contain his curiosity.

“Just what are we celebrating, Bob? What happened?”

“In a minute,” he said, placing the stopper back in the crystal decanter.

He handed a glass to each man and then lifted his own out in front...

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