Maria
From an empty bedroom, I watch Mikhail being taken away. The red backlights become smaller and smaller as I press my forehead against the cold glass. My mind races with scenarios as I struggle to accept what has happened.
Deep down, I know leaving wasn't Mikhail's decision. He would never willingly abandon me like this.
I race down the stairs toward the front door as if I'm not too late. I reach out for the doorknob, and two scowling guards pull me away. I fight against them, shouting that they better let me go. It's not fair. I'm doing what's expected of me to become a pakhan's wife.
Sorokin steps out of the dining room to investigate the shrieking commotion. His gun is drawn, but he quickly slips it under his jacket when he sees it's only me. What was he thinking? What was he p
