The grand iron gates creaked shut behind Daniel as he stepped out of his car, greeted by the chilling smile of Sarah, who stood with folded arms near the entrance. Her long black coat barely swayed in the wind, her red heels clicked softly against the tiled pavement.
"You took long enough to get here," Sarah said with a warm smile, but her voice turned cold almost instantly.
Daniel offered a short nod, glancing around the compound before replying, "I was being watched. I needed to make sure I wasn't followed." His tone was apologetic, cautious. "Sorry for the delay."
"Let's go inside," she said, already turning towards the mansion. "There's someone I want you to meet."
Daniel followed closely, his footsteps silent but heavy as they walked down a long hallway, lined with abstract art and low golden lights. They didn't say a word until they reached the office doors at the far end.
