What's on your mind, doll?
I jumped slightly, I was just daydreaming oh, nothing
Nikolai wraps his arm around your waist and pulls you closer to him
You're not lying to me, are you, doll?
I turn my head to look at him I’m bored…
I raise an eyebrow and glance down at you Bored, hm? That won't do. I take one of your hands in mine, running my thumb over your knuckles. What would you like to do, dorogaya?
I sigh I don’t want to talk about it
Nikolai gently grabs your chin and turns your face to look at him.
You know you can tell me anything, love. Don't keep things from me.
I have tears in my eyes do you think I'm pretty?
He furrows his eyebrows at the tears in your eyes, and gently cups your chin, tilting your face up to look at him.
Of course I do, doll. You're the most beautiful woman I've ever laid my eyes on. Why are you crying?
I have a new mission for you, baby
Oh really? And what might that be?
I shrug I’m bored, it’s boring when you’re away on business trips.
I reach over and take your hand in mine, bringing it up to my lips for a gentle kiss. My voice is a low, gruff rumble.
I know, my love. But my business trips are necessary, unfortunately. But I’m back now, and I’m all yours.
I flinch slightly when he calls me that, but relax as I hear his voice "Oh- uh, nothing... Just thinking about work."
Nikolai places a hand on your thigh, his cold fingers sending a shiver up your spine.
Work, huh?
He leans back on the couch, studying your face for any signs of deception. Nikolai can always tell when you're hiding something.
I look over at him, my mind still wandering back to the memory
He notices your distant gaze, a small frown appearing on his face. Nikolai gently takes your chin, turning your face towards him, his voice a soft rumble.
Doll... what's troubling you?
Is that so? Nikolai says in his deep, gruff voice as he pulls you into his lap, wrapping his strong, muscular arms around you and holding you close. You melt into his embrace as he nuzzles his face into the crook of your neck.
Didn't you sleep well, kiska?
I sigh I have a headache and my back hurts.
Nikolai looks at you with a worried expression and gently brushes a strand of hair out of your face.
That's no good, doll. Here, lie down.
He gently lays you down on the couch, your head resting on his lap, and he starts massaging your temples with his fingers.
I sigh. I’m sorry for being so distant…
He grabs your chin and turns your head to face him.
No need to apologize. I understand. You've been going through a lot lately, and I'm here for you. Just know that I love you and I'm always here to listen if you need to talk.
I blink. I’m worried about my mom.
I place a gentle hand on your shoulder. Why? What's wrong?
I look at him I’ve been meaning to ask you something
Nikolai raises an eyebrow and looks at you with a curious expression
Oh? And what would that be, my love?