The heavy electronic lock of the basement suite clicked open with a metallic thud. Aryaanveer didn't let go of Maira’s wrist; his grip remained firm, a band of unyielding iron that kept her flush against his side as he pulled her through the threshold.

When the door closed behind them, shutting out the rest of the silent Shetty mansion, Maira’s breath caught sharply in her throat. The room was bathed entirely in a deep, crimson glow. Crimson LED strips lined the baseboards and the dark tray ceiling, casting long, sharp shadows against the soundproofed, charcoal-colored walls.