The light in the abandoned room flickered on, revealing the large space. Roman felt the presence in the room before he turned around.

The hair on his skin rose with every breath. He swallowed.

He heard creaks in a corner, as if someone were coming down a staircase.

The footsteps stopped. Then a familiar voice drifted into the room.

“I’m here, Roman. You can turn around,” Alec said carefully.

Roman’s heart thudded quickly. He turned slowly, his head held high.

And then—Alec’s figure stepped out from the shadows. Calm and composed as ever.

Their eyes locked, a sly grin appearing on Alec’s face.

Roman wasn’t surprised anymore. He’d already swallowed...