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“I’m not afraid of death; I just don’t want to be there when it happens.”
? Woody Allen
Sofiya
“I can’t remember the last time I drove,” Marina chuckled. “I’m not the best driver, as you can probably tell.”
I adjusted in my seat and pulled my coat tighter as we sped through the countryside, passing rolling hills and vast fields.
As we approached small towns, I glanced out at the fleeting sights: colorful houses, faded white ones, and a dilapidated barn with a caved-in roof and overgrown walls. The air was chilly, the trees bare, creating a serene yet eerie atmosphere. The gray, gloomy sky mirrored the streets’ mood. I couldn’t shake the melancholy settling over me as I gazed at the desolate landscape.
Back home, I often wondered about the lives inside those houses—whether they housed young couples, families, or others with hidden stories. The mystery of it all unsettled me. Maybe someone needed help, love, or just attention.
With a sigh, I stretched my legs and broke the silence. “Ever wonder what goes on behind these closed doors?” I asked.
Marina turned thoughtfully. “Yes, but sometimes it’s better not to know. The mystery can be more enticing than the truth.”
I nodded, considering her words. “I see what you mean.”
We fell silent again, and I watched children playing in a park as we passed through a small town. Their laughter and joy briefly lifted my spirits.
“I don’t like driving either, I’m usually a passenger princess,” I laughed. “My mom thinks I’m a danger on the road.”
Marina chuckled, her grip on the wheel firm. “Well, I’m glad I’m driving then! Let’s hope we make it in one piece.”
Her long, straight blonde hair framed her face elegantly, complementing her striking red midi dress, knee-high white boots, and flowing white Chanel coat. Topped with a white ushanka, her outfit resembled something from a movie, enhanced by deep red lipstick and winged eyeliner that added to her compelling presence—both mesmerizing and slightly intimidating.
This morning, I awoke in Volk’s bed to the sound of the shower. My heart raced; time was running out—maybe 48 hours left to live. Memories of the previous night threatened to surface, but I pushed them away. I couldn’t afford false hope. Resolved to seize the remaining hours, I jumped out of bed as soon as the shower stopped.
Briefly, I pondered joining Volk, my hands eager to explore his body as he had mine. I wanted it all; to taste, bite, and lose myself in him.
But I resisted; I needed to protect myself.
Quietly slipping away, I returned to my room where the ache of loneliness lingered. After a calming shower downstairs, I found the house empty. My call for Dasha echoed unanswered, with the only signs of life being the guards smoking outside.
In the kitchen, I discovered a cup of vanilla tea waiting for me on the wooden island, its warmth comforting as I wrapped my hands around it. Sipping it, the familiar taste soothed my lips.
Looking out the window, I spotted a small musk deer. It moved delicately and gracefully as it sniffed around for food. When it noticed me, our eyes locked. A shiver ran down my spine—I couldn’t look away from the beautiful creature. It stared back at me with curiosity and a hint of fear before bounding gracefully into the forest.
Then, Marina’s voice broke the spell. “There you are.”
Startled, I spun around to see Marina standing there with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”
“What are you doing here, Marina?” I asked, genuinely surprised.
She chuckled, placing her white Chanel bag on the kitchen island before walking over to me, her heels clicking on the wooden floor.
“I came to check up on you, silly,” she replied, resting a hand on my shoulder.
“Oh. Thanks,” I replied with a small smile. “I’ve been feeling a bit … lonely.”
Marina grinned playfully. “No worries, I’m here to keep you entertained,” she winked, her hand still on my shoulder.
I couldn’t shake the strange sensation in my throat. Marina had a knack for making me feel both secure and exposed simultaneously. I trusted her yet couldn’t help but wonder about the secrets she’s keeping from me.
“Guess what? Volk said I could take you out for the day, to help clear your mind,” she announced cheerfully.
