Chapter 1: Introduction
Vika stirred a teaspoon of sugar into her cup of coffee, her gaze fixed on the dark liquid. She'd known Grisha too long and wasn't surprised when he shifted his chair closer to hers, leaning in until his knee was practically touching hers.
He laughed, a throaty rumble that made Masha wrinkle her nose. "You're so easy to rile up."
Vika glared at him, but she couldn't suppress the heat that rose to her cheeks.
Grisha's grin widened, his eyes sparkling with mischief. He was enjoying this, the cad.
"You know, Vika," he said, his voice low, "I've always thought you could use a little... loosening up."
She stiffened, her grip tightening around her spoon. "And what makes you think I need your help with that?"
Grisha glanced at Masha, who was watching their exchange with amusement. "Well, Masha here seems to think you're ready for an adventure." He winked at their friend, who shrugged, a smirk playing on her lips.
"I just think it's time Vika starts living a little, that's all." She took a sip of her cappuccino, her eyes twinkling over the rim of her cup.
Grisha turned his attention back to Vika, his gaze intense. "You know, I could help you with that. I could show you things, introduce you to experiences you've only ever read about."
Vika's heart pounded in her chest. She knew Grisha was flirting with her, pushing her boundaries as he always did.