"How many?" I ask.
He glances out just enough to gauge the situation.
"Twelve I can see," he says. "And the trees are too quiet."
Meaning: the rest are hidden because they don't want to be seen.
Another shot cracks. The sound is different now—closer. The bullet slams into the living room wall, and a fragment of ceramic pings across the floor, shattering one of the coffee cups.
Five minutes ago, we were discussing the future. Now, we're focused on our escape.
"They're moving," Maksim observes. "Spaced out. Not rushing. They're taking apart the cabin from the outside."
"Exit points?"
"The dock is being watched. If we run into the forest, they'll herd us."
"Encirclement."
He gives me a look that saysdon't romanticize it.This isn't just a tactical term; this is about men with rifles deciding whether we die quickly or slowly.
My phone vibrates in my pocket.
For a moment, I almost ignore it. Then I realize it's timed. A message delivered with bullets.
The number is blocked.
I answer.
"Boris," I say.
"Nephew," he replies, his tone calm and cheerful, as if we're discussing a real estate deal. "I have to commend you. This property was difficult to locate. You've always had a knack for disappearing."
"What do you want?"
"Stability," Boris says. "Succession without... mess."
"You mean without me."
He sighs softly. "Your father's favoritism blinded him. You were never meant for this. You get attached. You collect liabilities."
His men fire again—two quick shots, not aimed to kill but to remind me I'm trapped.
"The dog," Boris continues. "That's your favorite liability."
I glance at Maksim.
He's crouched behind the island, weapon ready. A thin line of blood stains his shoulder—a graze from the glass. He watches my face, trying to read me.
"Here's my offer," Boris says. "Send him out unarmed. He walks. You live."
My throat tightens.
I hear the subtext:Prove what you are, Ivan. Prove you'll trade him like you always have. Prove the file was right.
"And Maksim?" I manage to ask.
There's a pause, a smile in his voice. "He has killed too many of my men. I'll make it clean, but I won't make it merciful."
