A deafening boom echoed through the room when Liam desperately tried to push the massive double doors open. They would not budge. Not even a centimeter. His breathing became more strained as he pulled on the handles, his heart pounding further with each failed attempt. "Damn," he swore, stepping back, staring at the stuck doors as if ordering them to be opened. His gaze shot to the windows—his last hope. But a simple tug on the latches showed futility. Locked. Bolted. No escape. A heavy sensation had crept into his chest. This was not some bizarre prank or a top-security measure. He was being kept hostage. His mind went back to the events of the day. The stranger is fainting at the airport. The unusual smile of the receptionist—once, twice. And this. Being held captive in a room in a firm that could have someone abducted and never be seen again. His fists clenched. His gasps were brief and shallow. Panic was rising up his t