A GLIMPSE OF DARKNESS

Chloe arrived at the secluded warehouse just outside the city limits, the invitation from Milan weighing in her pocket like a loaded gun. The message had been simple: Come alone.

The air smelled of oil and damp concrete as she stepped inside. The dim lighting cast long shadows against the metal walls, and in the center of the room stood Milan. He was relaxed, dressed in all black, one hand in his pocket while the other toyed with a silver lighter.

"You came," he murmured, voice smooth but unreadable.

"You asked," Chloe replied, keeping her tone casual. But she noticed something different in his stance—something coiled, predatory.

Then she saw the man kneeling before Milan, hands bound, blood trickling from his temple.

Her breath hitched.

Milan flicked open the lighter, the small flame casting an eerie glow. "Do you know what I despise most, Chloe?" He turned slightly, looking at her as if she were the only person in the room. "Betrayal."

The man on the floor let out a choked sound, struggling against his restraints. Chloe felt her pulse quicken.

Milan crouched beside the captive, gripping his chin and forcing him to look up. "He thought he could sell information to my enemies. Now, what do you think I should do with him?"

Chloe knew this was a test. Another one. But this time, the stakes were higher.

She forced herself to meet Milan's gaze. "That depends," she said, careful with every word. "Do you want to send a message, or make him disappear?"

Milan's lips curled slightly. "Clever." He stood, his gaze still fixed on her. "I have a job for you, Chloe."

She swallowed. "What kind of job?"

He gestured for her to follow, leading her away from the trembling man. Once they were alone, his voice softened. "There's someone I need you to get close to. Someone important." His eyes darkened. "Can you do that for me?"

Chloe's heart pounded. He was pulling her in deeper.

She nodded, her voice steady despite the chaos in her head. "Tell me what I need to do."

Milan smiled. "Good girl."