Chapter 4

When Vadim finally does come home, Cole stiffens from his spot on the couch.

Vadim trails his hands along their pockmarked walls like a blind man reading braille, leaning slightly against it as he makes his way in.

"Do you want some water?" Cole asks, already walking over to the kitchen.

Vadim freezes.

His hand on the wall stalls.

He gulps before he speaks.

"So you

my maid."

Cole shoves the glass of water towards Vadim, the movement so jerky that the surface sloshes and paints the carpet between them.

Vadim doesn't reach for the cup.

Cole feels his face…