Page 81 of Velvet Chains
At first, he seems a bit shy, picking at his napkin. But after a moment, he looks up, a spark of enthusiasm in his eyes. “Well, I’m actually majoring in zoology at university. I’ve always been fascinated by animals, especially rare and endangered species.
“Really?” I lean forward, genuinely interested. “That’s so cool. What kind of animals are you most interested in?”
Yuri’s face lights up, and it’s like he’s a different person—animated, passionate. “I’m particularly interested in the Amur leopard. It’s the rarest big cat in the world, and it’s found primarily in the Russian Far East. I’ve been studying their habitat and behavior patterns, and I dream of one day going on an expedition to see them in the wild.”
I can’t help but smile at his excitement. It’s clear that this is something he truly cares about. “That sounds amazing, Yuri. I hope you get the chance to do that someday.”
He grins, nodding eagerly. “Me too. And not just the Amur leopard—I want to travel the world, see all kinds of different ecosystems and species. There’s so much out there to discover, you know?”
I nod, about to ask him more about his studies, but before he can even finish his thought, Dimitry cuts him off.
“Don’t be ridiculous, Yuri. You have responsibilities here.”
Yuri deflates like a punctured balloon, sinking back into his chair.
But Eli, God love her, isn’t about to let that slide. She sits up straight, her little chin jutting out defiantly. “Yuri’s a big boy, Papa! He should be able to do what he wants!”
For a second, I think Dimitry might actually acknowledge her. But nope—he just takes a swig of his wine, his eyes glued to his phone screen. It’s like his kids are nothing more than white noise to him, an annoying buzz in the background of his oh-so-important life.
Eli’s face falls, and I can see the hurt and confusion in her eyes. She doesn’t understand why her father is acting like this, and fuck, neither do I. What kind of parent just ignores their kids like that?
I catch Yuri’s eye across the table, trying to convey my sympathy. He gives me a small, sad smile like he’s used to this kind of treatment. And that just breaks my fucking heart.
I glance over at Dimitry, who’s still engrossed in his phone, and I feel a surge of anger.
I don’t know what the heck is wrong with me, but my mouth opens, and words fly out before I can stop them. “Well, I think Eli is right. You can do whatever you want to do, Yuri.”
I press my lips together, not daring to glance at Dimitry. But I can feel the weight of his gaze, the tension radiating from his direction. Out of the corner of my eye, I see him set his phone down on the table, his jaw clenched. He picks up his wineglass and drains it in one smooth motion, dismissing me as easily as he dismissed Eli.
I swallow hard, my heart pounding. Fuck, why did I have to open my big mouth? I should know better than to get involved in family drama.
I sneak a peek at my own phone, placing it carefully next to Dimitry’s. Just in case, you know, I need to make a quick getaway.
But before the awkwardness can reach critical levels, the food arrives, and suddenly, all other thoughts flee my mind. The spread is fucking insane—platters piled high with all kinds of delicious-looking shit. Roasted meats, savory pies, vegetables glistening with butter… it’s like something out of a goddamn fairytale.
My mouth waters, and I have to physically restrain myself from diving face-first into the nearest dish. I load up my plate, trying to be ladylike about it, but let’s be real—I’m fucking ravenous.
As I take my first bite, I can’t help but moan a little.
It’s so good, I could cry. For a moment, I forget all about the awkwardness, about Dimitry’s douchebaggery.
“Malyshka, why don’t you put the chess set away for now?” Andrey suggests gently. “It’s time to eat.”
Eli pouts, her little brow furrowed. “But dzye dooshka, we’re in the middle of a game!”
Andrey chuckles, his eyes twinkling. “I know, my darling. But the game will still be there after dinner. The food, on the other hand…”
Eli sighs dramatically but does as she’s told. “Fine. But I’m going to beat you this time; just you wait!”
Andrey grins, winking at me. “She’s a fierce one, isn’t she?”
I can’t help but smile back. “Definitely. Reminds me of someone else I know.”
Andrey’s gaze softens, and I know he’s thinking of Ksenia. “Yes, well. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, as they say.”
As we dig in, I find myself relaxing a bit. The food is amazing, and the conversation flows a little more easily. I talk about my bookstore and how I’ve always dreamed of owning my own place.
“You guys should come visit sometime,” I offer, looking at Eli and Yuri. “I’ve got a great kids’ section, and I’m always looking for new recommendations.”
