I knew I’d get asked about that at some point, but I’m not worried about my duties to the Knights. The benefits of me being away outweigh my presence here.
“You won’t have to worry about that. I will be here whenever you need me. While I’m away, whoever I chose as Obshchak will act on my behalf. My work on the ships is integral and ensures business runs smoothly for clients like you who use our company.”
That should shut his question down. He knows what I do on the ships and the benefit it will be if I continue my responsibilities.
“Alright, that is acceptable for the moment, but I request a review of this arrangement in a few months when you go back to sea.”
“Of course.”
“And what of the Sidorov girl? Do you still intend to adhere to the marriage contract and take her as your wife? Although the wording of the contract pertains to you as the eldest Volkova son, that contract was made with Viktor in mind. Given that I have the power to dissolve it.”
I was aware of his powers, I just never thought he would offer it. Nevertheless, it doesn’t change anything. “No, I intend to adhere to the contract and continue everything as originally planned.”
A touch of suspicion invades his expression. “Are you sure? It would be far more suitable for a Knight of your status to marry someone with a lineage from the Knights. There are plenty of women to choose from with better family businesses to align yourself with.”
“I am sure. I’m satisfied with the one I have.” I sound convincing to my own ears.
“Then I accept your decision. Welcome, Desmier, son of Evgeni, descendant of Myrridin.” He puts out his hand to shake mine.
I shake it but I sense he’s still in two minds about me. “Thank you.”
“I’ll see you in a few weeks for Bratva inauguration.”
“Indeed.”
With another dip of my head I leave and find Leif waiting for me in the hallway. We’re in the corner so we have privacy to talk.
“How did it go?”
“As good as it can be. He suspects me.”
“Of course he does, but he’s not someone you have to worry about.”
“No.” We took measures to keep what we know about Uther’s crimes under wraps. There’s no way of Aleksander finding out what he’s done and trying to incriminate me for blackmail.
“Alright my boy.” Leif smiles and rests a hand on my shoulder. “Tomorrow is another big day. I will see you then.”
Tomorrow I get Volkova Inc. and everything my father owns with the Volkova name attached to it. “See you then, Uncle.”
With another smile, he pats my shoulder and walks in the opposite direction.
I turn to go but stop when I feel eyes on me.
I look up and find myself staring at Zakh on the third floor balcony, watching me. I can’t quite see his face properly, but from what I can tell he’s assessing me.
A good couple of seconds pass with us just staring at each other and I don’t know what to make of it. Whether it’s good or bad.
He breaks eye contact first and walks away.
As weird as that was, he’s the first of my brothers to have any interaction with me.
I guess I’ll find out what his assessment is soon enough.
* * *
The silver moon shines over the automatic garage doors as they open for me.
I drive my Mustang inside and the door lowers once I’m inside.