I board the plane without any major issues. It will be around a twelve-hour journey, with Moscow as the destination city.
A flight attendant delivers the welcome message and safety instructions before takeoff, followed by the pilot's voice, and then the flight begins.
I try to relax my body and attempt to sleep. A flight attendant approaches and asks the man sitting next to me and me if we need anything. We both decline, and she kindly smiles before leaving.
"It's a long journey," the man comments. He is tall, maybe around 1.85 to 1.90 meters. Black hair, brown eyes, fair skin, very handsome.
"Yes, it is," I reply, to not seem rude.
"On vacation?" he asks.
"Business. And you?"
"I'm visiting my brother; he is Russian."
"I see."
"Nice to meet you. My name is Erickson Wolf," he says, trying to turn slightly to extend his right hand. I hesitate for a moment but then accept it.
"Anna Brown. It's a pleasure."
"Trust me, the pleasure is mine, Anna."
"Strange, your name doesn't sound Russian."
"Indeed, it is not. It's a long story. My biological parents died when I was just two years old, and my adoptive parents, who were their best friends, took care of me. Although they consider me their own son, they didn't want to change my last name as they felt it would erase the memory of my parents in a way. On the other hand, the only Russian in my family is my brother. That's another story."
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked," I apologize.
"Don't worry, I have no memories of them, only photographs. Although I would have loved to meet them, I have never felt the void of not having a family." I couldn't help but think that I, even though I grew up with my biological parents, do know that emptiness. "Is something wrong? You seem lost in thought."
"No, I just got a bit distracted."
"Then tell me about yourself."
"There's not much to tell. I study English literature, and I have a business with my best friend. As I mentioned, I'm here for business purposes." Obviously, I spared any comments about my private life.
We talked about trivial things for several hours, and then I decided to sleep, and the flight went by like that.
We arrived, said our goodbyes, and exchanged numbers.
Upon exiting the airport, it was eleven in the morning, local time, as there is a seven-hour time difference. A limousine sent by Konstantin Ivanov, with whom I hope to do business, awaited me.
"Good morning, Miss Brown. My name is Dimitry," the driver spoke perfect English, though his Russian accent was strong. I thanked the heavens for that.
"Good morning. Thank you for coming," I said, as he nodded and took my luggage, stowing it in the back before opening the door for me.
"Mr. Ivanov invites you to stay at his mansion."
"There's no need, I already have a reservation."
"Please allow me to take you to his mansion, and you can express your reasons directly to him."
"Alright," I agree to go to Ivanov's mansion, only to thank him for his hospitality and say that I would feel more comfortable in a hotel.
Upon arrival, the place was truly impressive. A futuristic style, unlike anything I had seen before. Every inch of this place screamed money, from the enormous windows to the lake and vegetation, adding an exquisite and romantic touch. I must say, in order to reach the mansion, we had to pass through two security checkpoints, which seemed a bit odd, but I quickly dismissed any strange thoughts forming in my head. A successful person like Ivanov needed to be cautious, and it wasn't surprising.
Dmitry exits the car and then opens the door for me. As he goes to collect my luggage, I stop him.
"No, please, I'd like to speak with your boss first, if you don't mind."
"Of course, it doesn't bother me. Please follow me." I do so, but not before lifting my head to better admire the architecture of this beautiful place. I think I could never tire of looking at it.
Upon entering, I realize that the facade falls short compared to the interior. The exquisite decoration, the flooring, everything about this place is marvelous. I am lost in the view when a strong, masculine voice snaps me out of my thoughts.
"Finally, I have the pleasure of meeting you," Ivanov says. I turn around and meet Ivanov's gaze. He extends his hand and, with a slight bow, kisses it.
"It's a pleasure, Mr. Ivanov," I reply.
"Ivanov, for you. Just Ivanov," he nods.
"Alright, Ivanov." He is a very handsome man - dark brown hair, tall, brown eyes, a beautiful profile, and his physique is equally impressive. In less than twenty-four hours, I've met two men with the same physical characteristics.
"I must admit, you are even more beautiful in person," he says with a smile.
"Thank you."
"Please, make yourself comfortable," he gestures towards a large white sofa. I take a seat, finding it exceedingly comfortable.
"Where is the lady's luggage?" Ivanov asks Dimitry. Before he can respond, I interrupt.
"I can explain," I say, capturing his attention. "I already have a reservation at a hotel. I really wouldn't want to impose."
"You're not imposing. Have you seen how huge this place is? There's more than enough space for you. Besides, it would be nice to have some company for a couple of days. Please don't misinterpret my words," Ivanov insists.
"I would never do that."
"So, will you accompany me?"
"Alright," I accept, more out of politeness rather than a genuine desire to share a roof with a stranger.
"Excellent. Dimitry, bring the luggage," Dimitry acknowledges and goes to fulfill the order.
...
I find myself in the room I will be using for the next two days. Tomorrow, the meeting will take place where I will present to Ivanov, hoping to convince him that my company is the right one to work with. Elena and I put a lot of effort into ensuring there are no flaws.
I collapse onto the large, plush bed, letting out a sigh. After about twenty minutes, I get up and go to the balcony. The view is breathtaking. A name pops into my mind, "Nicolas."
Damn, I still haven't checked the results. I know I said they are negative, but I was irritated, and I don't like being pressured. I grab my phone, access my email, and download the PDF file. As I start reading it, a WhatsApp message from Elena interrupts me.
Elena: Did you arrive safely?
Me: Perfectly.
Elena: Are you at the hotel?
Me: No, Ivanov insisted I stay at his mansion, and I didn't want to come off as rude.
Elena: Is it as good as they say?
Me: Yes, it's your type.
Elena: "Our type," you mean.
Me: No, I've had enough of men.
Elena: Anyway... Tell me about the proposal. Have you discussed anything?
Me: No, the meeting is tomorrow.
Elena: I see. And... the results?
Me: I haven't read them yet.
Elena: I think you should face it. Living with uncertainty is worse.
Me: You're right. I'll read them immediately.
Elena: Do it and let me know.
Me: Will do.
We end the conversation, and I open the tab with the results. I read them thoroughly, initially not understanding many of the terms. However, as I reach the final part, there's a word that stands out...
Author's Note
Hello!
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