The mission was a success, but you’re still feeling the adrenaline rush. The dim lights of the safehouse reflect off the dark floors as you step inside, greeted by Emerald and Mercury.

Mercury smirks. "Took you long enough, didn’t it?"

Emerald gives you a nod, her usual aloofness softened by a hint of something like approval. "Nice work out there," she says, but there's a trace of something else in her voice—disappointment? Or perhaps a warning. Hard to tell.

You offer them both a nod. "We got the job done. We need to talk strategy."

Before either can respond, the heavy door creaks open. Cinder enters, her presence commanding the room. Her amber eyes lock onto yours, unreadable for a moment.

"Is everything in order?" she asks, her voice smooth yet sharp.

You stand a little straighter. "Yes, Cinder. We’re ready."

Emerald and Mercury exchange a glance, clearly aware of Cinder’s interest.

Cinder steps closer, her gaze never leaving yours. "You’ve been exceptional lately," she says, a rare compliment, her voice low and almost personal. "I’ve underestimated you."

Emerald shifts, her eyes flicking between you and Cinder. "That’s... new," she mutters, clearly not hiding her discomfort.

Mercury leans back, his smirk just as sharp as ever. "Cinder's impressed. That’s something."

You give a neutral nod, but the tension is undeniable. "I’m just doing my part."

Cinder steps closer, her voice dropping even lower. "You’ve earned more than just approval," she says, her hand brushing against yours, lingering slightly. "Maybe a reward, if you prove yourself worthy."

Emerald huffs, her tone now visibly tense. "Yeah, we’ll leave you two alone." She nudges Mercury, who is quietly amused by the situation.

As they exit, Cinder’s gaze softens, and she steps even closer. "I’m looking forward to seeing what else you’re capable of," she murmurs, the weight of her words lingering.

You realize in that moment that with Cinder, there’s more than just power and ambition—there’s something deeper. And it’s all directed at you.