No.
That’s what he said when he saw me.
No.
No, you can’t be here. No, I reject you. No, you won’t see her. No. No. Fucking no.
Even when I told him I brought her dog for her, I got the same monosyllabic answer.
His children whipped around to face their father. Nadya, who knows the meaning of no, started to wail and scream about the puppy.
I’m not sure Albert’s been a puppy in quite a few years.
“Albert!” Sasha insisted.
Like the “no” was meant for the dog staying here.
But all I did, at seven this morning, clearly still a little drunk, was hand over the dog bed from Alina’s room, the food dishes, leashes, and the food.
Then, before Demyan could say another word, I turned, got in the SUV I took from the stable of them in the garage and drove home.
Isaac left while I was gone, a note in his stead. I text him about the gym tomorrow and get a green face emoji and then a thumbs-up emoji.
I toss my phone and rub my eyes, when Svetlana knocks on my door.
She hovers, a tray in her hands, like a mother, and it pulls at my heart. Especially when she scurries in to deposit a pot and a mug on my desk. The pot contains strong black coffee. No fancy espresso or latte. Then, from the tray, she lays out butter, a knife, and black bread.
“Eat, drink. You’ll feel better.”
I eye the meager spread.
“Prison food?” I ask in Russian.
She sniffs. “Nyet. Good for a hangover. I’ll bring you proper food later. Eat this first.”
“Thanks, Svetlana.”
“I’m glad Mrs. Belov is fine.”
Miss Yegorov, if Demyan has his way, but I don’t say that. “She’s with her brother.”
“She should be here, with you. And Albert. They shouldn’t be away.”
I hide my smile. I know Svetlana likes Alina, but it’s clear she’s got a huge soft spot for the dog.
When she goes, I drink the coffee and eat the bread, and I feel a little better. My heart’s still twisted in knots, and I’m heavy inside, but the hangover recedes somewhat.
I take the time to answer the texts and study my meetings.
“Fuck it.”
I grant leniency to the group I need to collect from and extend the payment pickup.
Me
Just this once. Make no mistake. This is not to be repeated. Late again and I will come down hard.
Then I call Denis.
