The elevator doors opened into a quiet corridor, the soft carpet muffling her footsteps. Golden lights along the walls reflected faintly off polished floors, giving the space a warm, inviting glow.
Elara followed the guards, her posture straight, her mind cataloging every detail. The walls were lined with bookshelves, small art pieces, and subtle displays of wealth. Everything seemed deliberate, neat, controlled—just like the man who had brought her here.
He walked a few steps behind, silent, calm, and composed. There was nothing threatening in him—no dark glare, no harsh tone—only a quiet presence that made her aware of him without fear. Every now and then, he glanced at her, noting her expressions, but never speaking unless necessary.
Finally, they reached a room that served as both study and lounge. Floor-to-ceiling windows reflected the city lights outside, while soft armchairs and low tables gave it a surprisingly welcoming feel. A faint scent of cedar and polished wood filled the air, blending with the soft hum of the city beyond.
"You'll stay here for the night," he said simply, gesturing toward a chair by the window. His voice was even, almost gentle, carrying a quiet authority that didn't need to intimidate.
"And tomorrow?" Elara asked, keeping her tone neutral.
He smiled faintly, a quick, polite curve of his lips. "Tomorrow… we'll see."
Elara settled into the chair, keeping her composure, though her mind raced. She glanced around the room, noting small details: a half-open book on a table, a faintly used coffee cup, the way the curtains were drawn to catch just the right light.
"You notice everything," he said quietly, finally moving closer to the window. His hands rested lightly on the railing, posture relaxed. "Most people don't."
She raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement tugging at her lips. "I've learned it's useful. You never know when details matter."
He glanced at her briefly, then back out the window. "Perhaps. Or perhaps it makes you… unpredictable."
Elara felt a small thrill at the comment. It wasn't flirtation, not exactly, but it carried an acknowledgment, a recognition of her intelligence. She studied him, noting how composed he was, how carefully he measured each word, each gesture. He wasn't trying to impress. He wasn't trying to intimidate. He simply… was.
The room fell into a calm silence. Outside, the city lights flickered in the distance, and for the first time since the auction, Elara allowed herself a deep breath. She felt no fear, only curiosity. Who was he, really? And why did the situation feel… less threatening than she had expected?
He finally turned toward her, his hands resting lightly at his sides. "Rest. You'll need it for tomorrow."
"I always do," she replied, her voice steady.
He gave a small nod, nothing more. And then he left the room, closing the door with a soft click that seemed louder than it should have been.
Alone, Elara leaned back in the chair, letting herself examine the man who had brought her into this strange, unfamiliar world. Calm. Composed. Observant. And unexpectedly… intriguing.
She couldn't help but think: Tomorrow is going to be… interesting.