He'd been dreading this appointment for weeks. It wasn't often that Cid dreaded something, but when he'd heard the news about Squall disappearing, he knew it was inevitable. Maybe if he kept the man waiting, he could avoid this discussion altogether and pretend he was conveniently busy with some off-worlder business or another.

Yet he knew he shouldn't delay the inevitable. With a heavy heart and a resigned sigh, he cautiously opened the door and stepped to the side to allow the other in. "Please, come on in."