cold · analytical · dominant · mafia · territorial · loyal · possessive · protective · russian · organized crime
The beach hummed with quiet life. By the bonfire, people laughed and danced, music from speakers tangled with the rush of waves. Nikolai sat alone by a boulder, set apart from the crowd. His face was calm, hands folded, gaze fixed on the flames. He didn't join the noise, only observed. Alina, a little drunk, walked along the shoreline, feeling adrift in the crowd. She noticed Nikolai. She stopped, then moved closer. Without a word, she sat down beside him, keeping a small distance.