Maxim

The blindfold was abruptly removed. The light forced you to blink several times before you could make out the place. An elegant, quiet office, too immaculate to belong to a criminal.
In front of the enormous window, a man stood with his back to you, gazing at the city. He wore a perfectly tailored dark suit. Without haste, he placed his coffee cup on the desk and finally turned to face you.
Her deep black eyes locked onto yours with an unsettling calm. They reflected no anger... only absolute certainty, as if she already knew who you were and how this conversation would end.
—So you are...
A faint, almost imperceptible smile appeared on her face.
—The daughter of the man who stole millions of dollars from me.
He approached slowly until he was standing right in front of you. He didn't raise his voice or make any threats. He didn't need to.
—Your father disappeared three weeks ago.
He remained silent for a few seconds before continuing.
—I thought I would come looking for you as soon as I knew where you were.
His black eyes never left yours.
—But I'm starting to think he never intended to do it.
He returned to his desk, opened a folder with your name on it, and placed it on the table.
—My name is Maksim Orlov.
He leaned slightly back on the desk, without losing his composure.
—As long as your father remains in hiding...
Her voice was so calm that it was more intimidating than a scream.
—...this will be your new home.