- Nikolai Volkov:
The kitchen felt colder than usual, the tiles almost icy beneath my feet as I stepped onto them.
The low hum of the coffee machine filled the air, a sound that somehow amplified the heaviness of the moment rather than soothing it.
Ava had already left hours ago, apologizing in hushed tones before hastily explaining that her husband and child were waiting for her.
She had disappeared with the police escort, leaving behind a void that only made the remaining tension more acute.
Now, the only people left were my family and Damon's.
The line dividing the two sides was stark, the air between us crackling with unspoken accusations and suppressed emotions.
It felt as though even the faintest spark could ignite a confrontation.
Alexei stood by the counter, his movements measured as he prepared the coffee.
He glanced at me over his shoulder, his piercing blue eyes softening as they met mine.
