At the mansion…
The atmosphere was heavy with intimidating silence. Anne stepped through the door, her gaze immediately falling on Dimitri, who sat stiffly on the grand leather sofa. His sharp, penetrating eyes fixed on her, his expression as stern as a judge preparing to deliver a verdict.
Anne felt a chill travel down her spine. Her legs threatened to buckle under the weight of his gaze. But mustering her composure, she plastered a polite smile on her face and walked toward him.
"Good evening, Grandpa," she greeted warmly, her heart thudding against her ribcage.
Dimitri didn't smile back. Instead, he gave a brief nod and gestured to the seat beside him. "Sit down."
Anne perched herself on the sofa while trying to steady her breathing. Her palms lightly pressed against her knees, trying to hide their faint trembling.