“You came for the report too, sir?” Mary asked politely.

Director Caius gave a small nod, his eyes fixed on me.

I quickly averted my gaze, refusing to meet his.

Mary’s eyes flicked between us before she excused herself.

“Wait.” Director Caius’s voice stopped her mid-step. He looked at her intently, then walked closer.

“What’s your name?” he asked suddenly.

Mary blinked, startled, before composing herself. “It’s Mary. I work in the same department as Selene.”

His expression hardened. The tension between them was so sharp, I felt it pressing against my skin.

“Why are you here?” I asked, desperate to break the uncomfortable silence.

“I came to check the...