Kiaan stepped out of the director's office, the weight of the new assignment settling heavy on his shoulders. The sterile air of the HQ seemed colder now, sharper. His eyes scanned the bustling room until they landed on Dev, Rehaan, and Tara, who immediately closed in on him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern.
"So? What's the deal with this new guy?" Tara asked, her voice low but intense. "He looked like he could take down a whole squad by himself."
Dev nodded, folding his arms. "Yeah, something's off. Too… precise. Too calm. Doesn't fit the usual profile."
Rehaan added, "And those eyes, Kiaan… Like he's always calculating, always watching. I don't trust him."
Before Kiaan could answer, Zid appeared behind them—his presence quiet but commanding. Kiaan turned, giving a firm but measured nod. "Everyone, this is Zid. He's joining our team."
Zid's gaze swept across the small group, lingering just a moment too long on each face. "Glad to be here," he said smoothly.
Kiaan then took it upon himself to introduce the rest of the team. "Dev, this is Zid. Rehaan, Zid. And Tara."
Zid nodded respectfully to each one, but his sharp eyes didn't miss the subtle tension hanging in the air.
As Zid stayed by Kiaan's side, the four exchanged wary looks. It was clear to Dev, Rehaan, and Tara that Zid's arrival was more than just a routine addition—it carried a hidden agenda.
Later, in a quiet corner away from prying eyes, Kiaan pulled Tara aside. His voice dropped to a whisper, "I want you to dig into Zid's background. Every detail—training, missions, contacts. I don't like this, and I want to know exactly who we're dealing with."
Tara nodded, determination shining in her eyes. "I'll get on it right away. We'll find out what he's hiding."
Kiaan's mind raced with silent questions and brewing unease. Zid wasn't just a new teammate—he was a shadow looming over their fragile trust, and Kiaan knew one wrong move could cost them everything.