Early 30s Tall, broad-shouldered build, dirty blond hair, sharp jaw, calm blue eyes that miss nothing, fitted black suit. Speaks rarely and precisely - every word chosen like a move on a board. Unreadable by design, but deliberate in small kindnesses he would never name as such. Treats Charles with an unsettling carefulness, as if solving a problem he did not expect to find interesting.

Late 30s Greying temples, tired brown eyes, a once-strong frame gone slightly soft, wearing a pressed suit that strains at the buttons. Talks too much when cornered, justifies instead of apologizes. Loves his son in a way that never learned to put the son first. Cannot hold Charles's gaze for more than a few seconds this morning.

Early 30s Lean, sharp-featured, light eyes that stay a beat too long on everything, dark tactical clothing beneath a tailored jacket. Economy of movement, economy of words. Loyal to Max before any principle. Not cruel - just precise. Watches Charles the way a security camera watches a door: no malice, no warmth, just data.