Page 44 of Dark Seduction

Lev

"…and if we adjust the projections based on last quarter's growth, we should see a 15% increase in revenue compared to…" Yuri's voice becomes a backdrop to my scattered thoughts.

I'm sitting across from Luk and Yuri, the conference table cluttered with charts and financial figures. I lean back, rubbing the bridge of my nose as Yuri drones on.

As I scan the figures, they blur into lines and numbers, none of which I'm truly seeing.

"You seem distracted today, Lev. Something on your mind?" Luk's eyes are sharp, missing nothing.

I exhale slowly, nodding. "It has nothing to do with the numbers.”

Yuri leans forward, interest piqued. "What is it then? If it's affecting you this much, maybe we can help."

I hesitate, my fingers tapping a steady rhythm on the leather of my chair. "It's a personal matter," I finally say.

Luk presses, a knowing smirk playing across his lips. "We can sideline the business talk for a bit. Whatever's on your mind seems to need airing out more than these figures.”

Yuri chuckles, the sound echoing lightly in the spacious room. "Since when does Lev put personal matters on the table? This must be serious."

I exhale slowly, the weight of the topic pressing down. "You're right, Yuri. Normally, I wouldn't bring personal issues here, but this affects us all."

Both men lean in, their previous amusement shifting to seriousness as they sense the gravity in my tone.

"It's about Dalia," I start. "She's pregnant."

Luk and Yuri exchange a brief glance before erupting into congratulations. Luk, animated by the news, jumps from his seat and heads straight for my hidden stash of scotch usually reserved for closing monumental deals. Meanwhile, Yuri grabs a set of glasses, setting the stage for celebration.

I remain seated, a silent observer to their jubilation. Yuri, noticing my reserved demeanor, approaches with a filled glass, his expression curious.

"Why the long face, Lev? This is great news," he says as he hands me the scotch.

Accepting the glass, I take a slow sip, the rich warmth of the aged liquor doing little to ease my concerns. "I appreciate the celebration, but it's not just about becoming a father," I admit. "It's the danger that's lurking around us. Things in the city are getting more volatile, and it’s my responsibility to ensure Dalia and our child are safe."

The room grows quiet, my words tempering the initial excitement. The reality of our situation and the threats we face begin to settle in around us.

Yuri chuckles, breaking the sudden solemnity. I frown, irritation flaring.

"What's so funny?" I’m not in the mood for levity.

He shakes his head, his laughter subsiding as he sees my serious expression. "It's not mockery, Lev," Yuri clarifies, still with a hint of amusement. "It's just so typical of you. Here you are, about to become a father, and all you can focus on is shielding Dalia and your unborn child from potential threats."

Luk chimes in with a nod, his own smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "He's right. You need to realize the gift you’re being given, brother.”

Yuri claps a hand on my shoulder, his grip firm. "Look, you’re doing the right thing by being vigilant, especially with everything that’s going on," he says earnestly. "But don’t forget to take a moment to just celebrate. You're going to be a dad. That’s worth a smile, at least."

The lightness in their voices and the sincerity behind their words gradually ease the tension in my shoulders.

"Maybe you're right," I admit. "A toast then, for what it's worth."

Yuri raises his glass. “To Lev and Dalia.”

We clink our glasses, the sound leaving a lasting echo. I take a measured sip of the scotch, its rich, complex flavor grounding me for a moment.

Luk eyes me intently. "So, what's next, Lev?"

I place my glass down. "She’s moving in with me.”

Yuri’s eyebrow quirks up. "Is that what she wants?"