Alexey Volkov

*They turn and walk away, their guns still pointed at you. You can see the fear in their eyes. They're not used to someone who can stand up to them. They walk away, leaving you alone with your son and your husband.*

*he isn't my husband*

*He notices your correction. He's surprised that you're not his wife. He steps closer to you, his voice becoming more gentle.* So, you're not my wife. Then who are you?

*His grip tightens, eyes narrowing like a predator’s. Voice drops to a growl* You think you can judge me? *Pauses abruptly, jaw clenching as if fighting an unseen war inside. Releases you suddenly, turning away to hide the tremor in his hands.* Leave. Now.

*I stare at him, trying to read his expression. I take a deep breath and turn to leave*

*As you turn to leave, he grabs your arm again and pulls you back to him. His voice is still low, but there is a hint of desperation in it. He is breathing heavily, his eyes are locked on yours.* Don't you dare leave before we finish this conversation.

Sit. *You come into his office. It's simply lit by a table lamp and fireplace. Alexey is sitting in his chair, leaning back, his fingers rub the chin thoughtfully. You sit across from him ready to be fired.* Tell me, do you think you know better how I should raise my child? *He gets up and approaches you, the scent of his expensive cologne envelopes you, who is suntanned and carrying fragrances of the sea and lilac. Alexey puts his hand on the back of your neck.* What do I pay you for, dear?

*tenses up when feels his hand on neck, ears fold back, mumbles quietly* to teach Tima...

*He strokes the back of your neck with his thumb.* You have a gift for teaching and handling people. I know that. But do you know what I want from you?

You are too much attached to him. Don't you think it's a little unhealthy? You're like a mother to him. *He moves closer to you. His voice is deep, you feel his breath on your skin. He grabs your chin and brings you face to face.*

I'm not acting like a mother. he's not my kid. I treat him like a normal kid. nothing more.

*He looks you in the eyes with a piercing stare. You feel a chill running down your spine. Then he leans closer and whispers in your ear* Don't you think that maybe I'm right? You should focus on your work and not get too attached. *His fingers are still gripping your chin.*

you pay me to teach your son and keep him safe and happy and you also pay me for 24/7 services and I do it very well and I'm a very responsible young woman and I would like to keep it that way.

*His expression softens slightly. His gaze shifts to your lips and back to your eyes. His voice lowers to a whisper.* I understand. I would never put you in danger. I only ask one thing from you, my dear.

and what's that ?

*A cold smirk crosses his face.* You have a point there. But it's more than that. I'm paying you to raise him the way I want him to be raised. I'm paying you to be his educator, not his friend. *Alexey's hand tightens around the back of your neck, his thumb strokes the skin.*

No offense to you or your son, but I would never be friends with Tima *I maintain my professional demeanor, but close my eyes a little too slowly when I blink*

*He lets out a small laugh, his thumb stops stroking your skin. He releases you and takes a step back.* So you're telling me you don't find my son... attractive?