She pulled out her camera, snapping photos from a distance.
Voice Behind Her: "I wouldn't do that if I were you."
Startled, she turned to see a man emerging from the trees—tall, with piercing green eyes and a stern expression.
Amelia: "Who are you?"
Man: "I should ask you the same question."
Amelia: "I'm Amelia Hart, a journalist with the Silvercrest Times."
Man: "This is private property. You're trespassing."
Amelia: Trying to remain calm "I didn't realize. I was just exploring."
Man: "Exploring can be dangerous around here."
She noticed a subtle tension in his posture, as if he were ready to pounce.
Amelia: "Is that a threat?"
Man: Taking a step closer "A warning."
Before she could respond, another voice cut through the air.
Xander: "That will be all, Tobias."
Amelia's heart skipped as she saw Alexander Drakov emerge from the shadows, his gaze fixed on her.
Tobias: "But sir—"
Xander: Firmly "I said, that will be all."
Tobias shot Amelia a final wary glance before retreating into the woods.
Amelia: Finding her voice "Mr. Drakov, I didn't expect to see you here."
Xander: Arching an eyebrow "Likewise, Miss Hart. You seem to have a habit of appearing in unexpected places."
Amelia: "I could say the same about you."
He gave a slight smile.
Xander: "What brings you to my humble abode?"
Amelia: Choosing her words carefully "I'm working on a piece about you. I was hoping we could arrange an interview."
Xander: "Ah, ever the journalist."
Amelia: "It's my job."
Xander: "And trespassing? Is that part of your job as well?"
Amelia: Flushing slightly "I apologize for the intrusion. I didn't realize I was on private property until it was too late."
Xander: "Apology accepted. But you must understand, I value my privacy."
Amelia: "I do, but I also believe the public has a right to know more about the man behind the philanthropy."