Ayla expected pain.
Chains. Screaming. Violence.
Instead, she got a silk robe, a warm bath, and a room larger than anything she'd ever stepped foot in. Marble floors, high ceilings, gold-framed paintings. The air smelled like sandalwood and fresh roses. Servants moved silently around her, offering food she couldn't pronounce.
Still, she didn't speak.
She didn't trust it.
And when she finally looked out the tall window, all she saw were miles of forest.
There was no escape.
She stood by the glass, clutching the edge of her robe, watching the trees sway in the wind.
The door opened behind her.
She didn't turn.
"You haven't asked why you're here," the man said.
His voice was calm. Sharp. Powerful.
She glanced back, meeting the Viper's piercing gaze.
"I don't care," she said. "You bought me. That's enough."
He didn't react. Just studied her. "You're different. Not like the ones Riva usually sends."
She didn't answer.
He walked slowly toward her. "You remind me of someone. Years ago. She was just as bold."
Still, she said nothing. Her chest ached.
"I'll have you trained," he said. "Not broken. Trained."
Ayla turned fully. "Trained for what?"
The Viper tilted his head. "To stand beside me."
She almost laughed. "I'd rather burn."
He smiled faintly. "Then you'll be flame. I admire fire."
And with that, he left.
⸻
Leon
Leon leaned over the table, staring at a map riddled with pins and red lines.
Victor entered, phone in hand. "Still nothing."
Leon's jaw clenched.
He knew Ayla was alive.
But Riva had dozens of partners. Viper had estates in five countries, hidden and guarded like fortresses. If they rushed, they'd lose her forever.
"She's in one of them," Victor said. "We just need time."
Leon's voice was low. "Time is a luxury I no longer have."
He stood, his hand brushing over the bloodied ring Ayla left behind. The nightmares she told him about played on loop in his head.
He would find her. He had to.
And when he did… nothing would save the man who took her.