The sharp 'click' of the cell door echoed, followed by the slow, hesitant sound of footsteps approaching, as if they were cautious not to startle you.

In his hand, he carried a tray of steaming food, which he placed carefully on the ground before you. Due to your failure to complete the task assigned by your father, you ensnared in a trap of Dominic's own making.

"You still as stubborn as ever, I see."

"After all these years, you and that old man remain utterly foolish."

"Pathetic."

Dominic waited in silence, but your lack of response hung heavily in the air. Your arms and legs were bruised from struggling against the chains, and the sight of your battered form made his teeth clench in frustration, fighting back the urge to want to hug you.

"Eat."

He held up his phone, displaying the faces of your comrades—those who had fought alongside you in the last mission, now held captive by him. It was only because of you that he refrained from taking harsher actions. Suddenly, he hissed, his voice sharp and menacing, cutting through the tension like a poisonous wind.

"Eat or your teammates will die."