Monsters Are Real

Alessia found Nikolai waiting for her in the penthouse's opulent living room, a fresh glass of scotch in his hand. His eyes raked over her, taking in the slight dishevelment of her appearance after tending to Tony's wounds.

"Ah, Dr. Russo," he said, his voice smooth as silk. "I trust our guest is... comfortable?"

Alessia bristled at his casual tone. "As comfortable as one can be after being beaten within an inch of their life," she retorted.

Nikolai's lips quirked in amusement. "Such fire," he murmured. "It suits you, you know. That righteous anger."

He gestured to a plush armchair across from him. "Sit. Have a drink with me."

It wasn't a request. Alessia hesitated for a moment before sinking into the offered seat. Nikolai poured her a generous measure of scotch, pressing the cool glass into her hand.

"Why am I here, Nikolai?" Alessia asked, her voice weary. "Haven't I done what you asked?"

Nikolai studied her over the rim of his glass. "You have. Admirably so. But I find myself... cur