Respectfully
Oliver cautiously approached the counter, trying to mask his unease. He greeted Mark, his voice trembling slightly, and politely asked for his glowing gem back. However, as Mask handed the gem to Oliver, a sinking feeling settled in his stomach.
Something’s Off
Soon after the conversation began, Mark began acting suspiciously. He forbade Oliver to touch or look at the stone. That threw Oliver off. For crying out loud, what does that mean? The Mark had not been created at that time. He went on a long rant.