Code Word

- DOMINIK -

Luka texts me that he and the men are on their way back from our house with our possessions in tow. 

"Matvey will be out of the meeting soon," I tell Vanessa, feeling my heart grow heavy like a stone in my chest. I have stayed in her room as long as I can without risking being found. It's not like we didn't know I would have to leave, but it went too fast. "I have to go, Milaya." 

Vanessa smiles, but it doesn't reach her eyes, and I can see her stiffen. The soft, dreamy aura of our time together is starting to burn away, revealing the hardened versions of ourselves that will need to remain to face what's coming. 

"I have an idea," I say, pulling her legs toward me on the bed until she is right in front of me.