Zoey took the first step with bare feet, feeling the smooth, almost warm floor beneath her soles. It was as if the building had skin, was pulsing beneath her. Victor had left his wine glass on a built-in shelf and now walked ahead, silent, elegant as a shadow that knew every inch of that place.

"Keep following me," he said, without turning. "And try not to look only with your eyes."

The phrase sounded almost like a challenge. Zoey lifted her chin and quickened her pace.

The corridor leading ...