There was a small, red LED light that was currently dark.

I located the small, recessed button on the side.

I pressed it down, holding it for three seconds as Damiano had instructed.

The small red light began to pulse slowly in the darkness.

It was transmitting.

But how long would it take for Damiano’s men to find the signal?

And was Damiano even alive to receive it?

Suddenly, the sound of heavy footsteps echoed in the hallway outside.

They stopped right outside my door.

The brass doorknob began to turn.

I shoved the transmitter deep into my front pocket, pressing my hand over the fabric to block the small pulsing red light.

The door swung open with a sharp creak.

Marcus stood in the doorway, his silhouette tall and imposing against the brightly lit hallway.

He wore a tailored grey suit, though his tie was loosened and his collar was open.

He smelled of damp rain and expensive scotch.

“Still awake, Arya?” he asked, his voice smooth and entirely devoid of warmth.

He stepped into the room and closed the heavy door behind him, though he did not lock it this time.