Chapter 344

Conrad Hilliard stood up right away and gave Michael Taylor a respectful nod. “Sir, I should apologize. Didn’t mean to ruin the game for you.” His voice was low, tone sincere. “My skills are pretty average… I just really wanted to learn a few more tricks from you. Your play is bold and unpredictable—each move full of surprises. I was barely keeping up. Spent the whole game just reacting, totally forgot to let you enjoy the kill. That one’s on me.” He flattered Michael’s skill while humbly keeping himself in the student’s place. Michael’s earlier irritation vanished on the spot. He chuckled, his beard twitching as he smiled, clearly softening toward Conrad. “You smooth talker,” he grumbled, but his eyes gave away how much he appreciated it. “All right, it’s getting late. Let’s wrap this up.” Everyone started saying their goodbyes. Calliope Godfrey hooked her arm through Conrad’s as the two strolled side by side toward the parking lot. The night breeze was cool and gentle, making the wal