Chapter 1 – Oksana
Tatiana stood by the door in the dimly lit passage, her posture straight, head slightly tilted as if listening to the heartbeat of the building. Her black fitted pants and white shirt hugged her athletic frame, the black blazer giving her the sharp silhouette of someone who belonged in command. Her hair, pushed back by a dark band, framed her strong, focused face; the soft sheen of her skin contrasted with the cold steel in her dark eyes. Alex approached, his polished shoes clicking against the marble. “They’ve completed the final sweep. The audience is seated,” he said, his voice low but urgent. Tatiana gave a curt nod. “Good. Take your position.” As Alex left, Tatiana turned and entered the room behind her. Oksana was sitting on the couch, her hands clasped loosely in her lap, fingers twitching like they were debating whether to grip tighter. Her head hung slightly forward, her jaw set, lips pressed together. Her eyes stared at the floor but didn’t see it—her m...