Alice stepped into the building like she belonged there. Head high, shoulders pulled back, heels tapping against the polished floor with unsettling clarity.
The towering glass doors closed behind her with a muted thud, locking her into a space that screamed wealth, control, and silence. Security was tight. Cameras in every corner, armed guards stationed discreetly near the exits.
She didn't dare let her steps falter. Her palms were sweaty beside her, but on the outside, she was every bit the girl she had created in her head. One of those arrogant heiresses who made secretaries sweat and called CEOs by their first names.
At the reception desk, she slowed.
"I'm here to see Director Bach," she said, tone sharp, fingers tapping on the counter.
One of the young women behind the desk smiled politely. "Welcome to Serpentine Corp. Do you have an appointment?"
