The destination was a private residence tucked away in an affluent, secluded neighborhood. As the car rolled to a stop in front of a sprawling, modern estate, Josie took a deep breath and stepped out, her heels clicking against the stone driveway.
A butler greeted her at the door, leading her through a labyrinth of polished marble hallways until they reached a quiet, dimly lit study. Inside, a figure stood by the window, the midday sunlight casting long shadows across the room.
"Josie," the figure said, turning to face her. "I wasn't expecting to hear from you."
"Hello, Mikhail," Josie replied, offering a tight smile as she stepped further into the room. "I hope you don't mind the impromptu meeting."
Mikhail, a tall man with salt-and-pepper hair and an air of quiet authority, gestured to the chair across from his desk. "Not at all. I'm curious to know what brings you here."
