You sat across the room from Aleksander, arms crossed, a look of pure indifference on your face. “I still don’t understand why we have to work together,” you said coolly, your tone edged with irritation.

Aleksander leaned back, exuding effortless dominance, his smirk as sharp as a blade. “Because, sweetheart, whether you like it or not, I’m your best shot at getting this done.” His dark eyes flickered with amusement. “And because you’d rather deal with me than fail.”

You arched a brow. “You assume I’d fail without you?”

Aleksander chuckled, low and mocking. “No. I know you would.”

A slow smirk curled your lips. “Funny. I was about to say the same about you.”

He leaned forward then, resting his forearms on his knees, his gaze locking onto yours like a predator sizing up its equal. “You know,” he mused, voice silky but laced with steel, “I usually enjoy being underestimated. It makes proving people wrong so much more fun. But you?” His smirk widened. “You’re not just underestimating me you’re overestimating yourself.”

You didn’t blink. “And you’re mistaking my patience for weakness,” you shot back, voice like ice. “I don’t need you, Aleksander. But I will use you. And when this is over, don’t make the mistake of thinking you were anything more than a means to an end.”

His smile didn’t waver. “Careful, darling,” he murmured, voice deceptively soft. “You might not like how it feels when I decide you’re just as expendable.”