I trace lazy patterns over his chest as I come down. “So… what happens now?”
“Now we figure out how to be normal people… if people like us can be.”
“You think we can do normal?”
“Probably not. But I’ll try if you will.”
The doorbell rings, interrupting our moment. Dmitri groans and checks the clock.
“Who the hell visits at six in the evening?”
I giggle and reply, “People with jobs and normal schedules?”
“I hate normal schedules.”
We get dressed reluctantly, and Dmitri goes to answer the door while I make myself presentable. I hear voices in the hallway, and then Anya appears in the living room carrying a bottle of wine and a knowing smile.
“You two look… relaxed,” she observes.
“We’re settling in,” I reply, trying not to blush.
“I can see that. The domestic life suits you.”
Dmitri returns from the kitchen with three glasses. “To what do we owe the pleasure?”
“I wanted to check on you both. Make sure you’re adjusting to life without people trying to kill you.”
“It’s surprisingly boring,” I admit.
“Boring is good. Boring means Viktor’s really dead, and his network is actually finished.”
Anya accepts a glass of wine and settles into one of the leather chairs. “I also wanted to tell you I’ve decided what I’m doing next.”
“Let me guess,” Dmitri says. “Private security consultant?”
“Close. I’m starting a firm. Discrete protection services for people who need more than conventional security.”
“People like us,” I interpret.
“Exactly. Criminals with consciences, ex-intelligence operatives who’ve gone legitimate, anyone caught between worlds and needing protection.”
“That’s brilliant,” I tell her.
“I learned from the best. Both of you, in different ways.”
We spend an hour catching up. Anya’s business idea is solid, and she’s already got clients lined up. The conversation is easy and comfortable, like three friends planning the future.
When Dr. Orlov arrives an hour later, our gathering is complete. He looks around the penthouse and notes, “You both seem well.”
“We’re good,” Dmitri confirms.
“Better than good,” I add.
“I’m glad. When I became involved in this situation, I wasn’t certain anyone would survive it intact.”
“Define intact,” Dmitri says dryly.
“Psychologically healthy, emotionally stable, and capable of forming genuine relationships. All things that seemed unlikely given the circumstances.”
