The deputy director's face, thick with layers of flesh, twisted into something even more grotesque under the dim lighting. "Ms. Wister, good evening." His eyes roamed over Calista, sizing her up like she was a product to be priced, as if calculating how much her organs could sell for.
Calista ignored him. Her gaze landed on Ike, who was tied to a chair behind the man, struggling and making muffled noises through the thick duct tape covering his mouth. He shook his head frantically, his eyes filled with fear, but he still tried to warn her in silence.
'Run... Run!'
Since he couldn't speak, he used his eyes to plead with her.
Calista saw the desperation in Ike's eyes, but at the same time, she also sensed something else. The dim light behind her suddenly grew brighter.
'Someone's here!'
