The abandoned station faded behind them as the passengers were marched through a narrow path beside the tracks.
Not far away stood a small building that looked like an old service lodge. Its walls were worn and the lights inside flickered weakly.
One by one, the passengers were pushed inside.
"Stay here," one of the men ordered. "Don't try anything stupid."
The door slammed shut behind them.
The room was simple—just a few worn couches, a table, and dusty windows that barely showed the outside. Some passengers sat down immediately, whispering nervously to each other.
Adam stood near the wall, silent.
Across the room, Aria watched him for a moment before walking over.
"You're way too calm," she muttered quietly.
Adam didn't reply.
Instead, he looked toward the door, thinking.
Watching.
Calculating.
Aria sighed and grabbed his collar suddenly, pulling him closer and pinning him lightly against the wall.
Aria leaned closer to him, her voice dropping to a whisper near his ear.
"You better not do something reckless."
Adam blinked once.
Her grip tightened slightly.
"You're planning something," she continued quietly. "I can see it on your face."
Adam's expression remained calm.
"You're imagining things."
"Don't lie to me," she murmured.
For a moment, neither of them moved.
Then Aria's voice softened just slightly.
"Listen carefully, Adam."
She leaned closer and whispered,
"If you're going to cause trouble… at least make sure you survive it."
Adam finally looked directly at her.
There was no anger in her eyes.
No fear either.
Just something firm.
A quiet understanding.
Aria released his collar and stepped back.
"Don't misunderstand," she said casually, crossing her arms. "I'm not responsible for you."
Adam straightened his shirt.
"I know."
There was a brief silence.
Then he added calmly,
"It's not a bond."
Aria smirked faintly.
"Good."
Adam picked up his bag again and glanced toward the door.
Outside, faint footsteps echoed through the hallway.
Something was definitely being prepared.
And whatever it was…
Adam had no intention of just sitting and waiting.