Maxim felt a cold sweat form on his skin, but he couldn't afford to back down. Not with fifty thousand on the line. He forced a seductive smile, and his professional instincts kicked in.
"Of course, I'm here to give you a show," Maxim replied, his voice steady despite his growing unease.
The man tilted his head, watching Maxim with an intensity that made him feel like prey.
"I've watched you before, Maxim. You move so effortlessly on stage. But here…" the man gestured around the room, his hand grazing the back of the plush sofa. "It's just us. No distractions. Just you... and me."
Maxim swallowed hard, knowing he couldn't show any hesitation. He had performed countless times, dealt with demanding customers, but this man, a mysterious figure with the gold mask—felt different. Dangerous.
