Cooperation

 Aurora stood, shocked by the man sitting before her. The room was dark with a few fire lamps sticking to the walls, making the atmosphere eerie. She gulped and gazed back at the door; she stretched her hand and turned the knob, but the door didn't open.

"Do not try to run. My men were circulating every corner of this place. Even if you succeeded in running out, my men will bring you here," he informed, his voice was a hint of mocking in his voice. He pointed at the seat before the desk. "Sit down," he demanded.

Having no other choice, she shuffled, and then sat down, fisting her trembling hands, waiting for the Count to talk.

"How have you been, Lady Aurora?" Count Clarkson asked.

"F-fine," she stuttered. Her heart thumped furiously.

"Are you afraid?" he asked, and she shook her head, despite feeling the opposite. She was so scared that her heart would jump from its place. What if he told her parent? She could not help but feel more anxious.