Austin looked around the embassy's reception room. He was the only invitee, fueling his suspicion of a trap. The invitation had surprised him, Alexander, and Mike. He was unfamiliar with the location, but they'd decided he should go—they wouldn't learn the others' intentions otherwise. Besides, an official invitation suggested safety. He arrived at the appointed time, and guards searched him for contraband upon entry.

A beautiful woman served him coffee, then left him alone in the vast room. He left the coffee untouched. Though he wanted to explore the room, he felt it inappropriate. He noticed two surveillance cameras, his unease growing. Then, he heard footsteps outside.

Remaining seated, Austin watched the door. A man opened it, speaking courteously to someone behind him before entering.

"Uncle Dom?!" Austin leapt to his feet, barely containing his excitement. He rushed forward, embracing the older man. "Uncle Dom, why are you here?!"

"Why? Aren't you happy to see me?" Dominic held Austin at arm's length. "I'll leave then," he said disdainfully.

Austin quickly grasped his arm. "Come on! I'm thrilled to see you, Uncle Dom!"

"Yeah, right." Dominic frowned, but a hint of good humor softened his expression.

Austin glanced past his granduncle. "Have they mistreated you?" He looked Dominic over, concerned.

"No, no!" Dominic waved dismissively. "Who would dare mistreat me? I'm fine, all right?"

Relieved by his granduncle's good spirits and lack of injury, Austin helped him sit. He noticed the open door and a guard waiting outside. He started to close it.

"There's no need. What difference does it make?" Dominic gestured towards the surveillance cameras.

Austin agreed, and sat beside him.