The Price of Trust

The flickering light of the interrogation room cast long, dancing shadows that seemed to mock Stevie’s weariness. Dr. Aris Thorne sat opposite her, a picture of unnerving calm. His eyes, the color of glacial ice, held no trace of fear or remorse, only an insatiable curiosity that felt more dangerous than any weapon. He had been apprehended in the aftermath of what Thorne himself had termed “a minor setback” in Julliana’s grand design. A setback that had leveled a city.

“You understand why you’re here, Doctor,” Stevie said, her voice a low, steady hum that barely disturbed the sterile air. She kept her gaze locked on his, searching for any crack in his composed facade.

Thorne offered a thin, almost imperceptible smile. “To provide you with the missing pieces, Agent Green. To help you understand the magnificent tapestry Julliana is weaving.”