Irene and Alisa moved with cold efficiency, separating us without hesitation. Claire's voice cut through the tension like a blade as they dragged her and Yelena toward a different room. "Where are you taking him?!" she demanded, her voice sharp with fury.
Polina didn't flinch. "The boss wants to meet both of you," she said, her tone calm but final. "He isn't needed. So he needs to wait."
I met Claire's eyes, forcing a reassurance I didn't entirely feel into my voice. "Don't worry. I'll be fine."
Claire's glare could've melted steel, but she didn't fight as Irene and Alisa led her away. Yelena, ever the wildcard, shot me a look that was equal parts I'll kill them all and don't do anything stupid. Then she was gone too, disappearing down the hallway with the two bodyguards.
Polina gestured for me to follow her, her grip firm but not unkind as she guided me into a separate room. The door clicked shut behind us, the sound final.
