"Mr. Hale," Dimitri said, his deep voice carrying genuine warmth. "Welcome."
Alex nodded once. "Good to see you, Dimitri."
Dimitri stepped aside, holding the door open with a smooth, almost practiced movement.
"Please. Everyone is waiting for you inside."
Alex crossed the threshold.
Immediately, the change hit him.
The villa felt alive.
Not chaotic.
Not tense.
But alert.
Grounded.
Dangerous in the way only trained operatives could be... like wolves resting but capable of tearing apart threats in a heartbeat.
Dimitri walked ahead, guiding him through the entryway. Alex followed silently, taking in the environment.
The interior was clean and elegant in a way that spoke of quiet wealth, not showmanship... polished flooring, minimalist corners, tasteful art.
But what stood out wasn't the decor.
It was the signs of life:
A rack of neatly arranged tactical gear.
A table with multiple news screens running.
An open doorway where he glimpsed training mats.
