Lily's heart raced as her gaze locked onto Nikolai's figure, standing in the shadowy corner of the unfamiliar room. His presence, coupled with the disorienting situation she found herself in, sent shivers down her spine. The memories of the chaotic events that had transpired before her consciousness slipped away began to piece themselves together, forming a grim puzzle.
Nikolai's expression was enigmatic. He took a step forward, his eyes never leaving her, as if assessing her reactions and gauging her emotions.
"What's going on, Nikolai?" Lily's voice trembled, her mind a whirlwind of questions and apprehensions. The room seemed to close in around her, the walls carrying the weight of secrets she couldn't fathom.
He remained where he was, his arms crossed casually over his chest. The lo
