Zara's POV
I turn toward the voice and see a middle-aged man walking confidently toward us—Hugo Seryaklov. His presence is commanding, even more unsettling in person than in the photos we had studied.
"I was expecting your father. I wasn't aware you would be coming in his place," he says smoothly, extending his hand to Damian.
They exchange a handshake, Damian's grip firm but polite. "Yeah, he couldn't make it, so I came instead," Damian replies, offering a perfect imitation of charm with his fake smile.
As they converse, I try to edge away, hoping to start searching the building. But Seryaklov's attention shifts to me. "And who's this with you?"
"This is Zara," Damian introduces me without missing a beat. "She wanted to join me for the party."
Hugo's gaze lingers on me, and his smile widens, though it doesn't reach his eyes. "A pleasure to meet you," he says before adding, "Would you like to see my study?"
Damian's POV
The moment the words leave his mouth, a surge of anger flares inside me. His tone, the way his eyes narrow ever so slightly—it's clear this is more than a casual invitation. He's testing us, or worse, has other intentions entirely.
Zara, ever oblivious, lights up at the suggestion, clearly interpreting it as a golden opportunity. Before I can say anything, she looks at me expectantly.
"We were actually about to go now," I say quickly, grabbing her hand to lead her away.
But Zara pulls back slightly, her eyes wide and curious. "We're in no rush, Damian," she says, completely ignoring the tension in my voice. "I would love to see your study, Mr. Seryaklov."
My jaw tightens. I give her a look, silently pleading for her to reconsider, but she doesn't catch on. Before I can stop her, she steps forward, and Hugo gestures for her to follow him. My heart sinks as Seryaklov tells me wait for them, I maintain my composure despite the unease clawing at my chest.
Zara's POV
Hugo's study is lavish and orderly, with dark wood furniture and a faint scent of cigars lingering in the air. As we step inside, I spot a stack of documents neatly arranged on a desk in the corner. A spark of hope ignites in me—this could be exactly what we're looking for.
I glance over my shoulder at door which has been locked, and I remember the way Damian looked at me before I left his expression unreadable but his body tense. I take a step toward the desk, trying to appear casual, when a faint hum draws my attention.
Before I can locate the source, I start to feel strange. My vision blurs slightly, and my balance falters. Hugo's voice becomes a distant echo as I struggle to focus. I try to stand to stand rightly, but before I can call out, the world tilts, and I start to feel very dizzy.
If you're enjoying this story, be sure to check out my other one:
Reincarnated into My Favorite Videogame.