Returning the books to the massive shelves, she heard the office door open. A perfectly quiet, neat sound, followed by equally careful footsteps. Her heartbeat quickened involuntarily, and Alice froze.

Serezha has a different way of opening the door. She held her books tighter as someone approached from behind. It was pointless to stay idle and, gathering her strength, she turned around sharply.

She opened her mouth in a silent scream and, without blinking, looked at Vanya. Or rather, the weapon in his hand. A familiar chill ran down his spine, like a warning that something bad was about to happen.

"Let's talk," she offered quietly, taking a cautious step...