Page 6 of Bound to the Bratva
I make my way through the floor my office is on, waving at my assistant as I begin to walk by her. "Mr. Volkolv, do you need something?" She rises immediately, her voice laced with concern. There isn't any need for it. Everything is fine.
"I'm stepping out to grab some lunch," I announce, my tone calm like it's always been when I chat with her.
All the color drains from her face. "I can take care of that for you. What are you in the mood for today?"
I flash her a smile, dismissing her offer with a wave of my hand. "There's no need for you to do that. I need a break from my damn office and it looks like this is my only opportunity. Did you want something while I'm out?"
Regina has only been working for me for about a week. I fired her predecessor who was an incompetent fool. Alice thought it was acceptable to be using my office as a porn studio. And no, I'm not even exaggerating.
Regina's expression falters, her brow furrowing as she struggles to come up with a good response. "I'm okay," she finally replies, but her voice wavers slightly. "I really appreciate the offer, Mr. Volkolv."
I take a quick glance at her desk, my eyes landing on a clear, see-through hot coffee cup. It's about halfway gone. "How about a coffee? That's probably cold by now, huh?" I motion toward her drink.
"It is, but it's okay. I'll be fine."
I cock a brow and chuckle softly. "You know, this could go a lot easier if you just tell me what you like."
I might have a reputation as a strict, no-bullshit kind of boss, but one thing I am not is heartless. Underneath my tough exterior, I am a decent guy. Most people don't get the pleasure of seeing it.
Regina sighs and smiles, her eyes lighting up a little. "Any kind of hot latte, toffee, vanilla, caramel. It doesn't matter. I'm not picky at all,"
"Okay, I'll see you in a little bit," I walk off, heading for the elevators and make my way down into the building's lobby.
I make my way into the elevator, which is thankfully already open, and listen to the soft music that plays in the background. The ride isn't long and soon enough the doors are opening to the lobby.
As I step into the lobby of the towering building, a sense of freedom washes over me. I make my way through the lobby and head outside.
The cool, fresh air hits my face, rejuvenating my spirit after being confined to the walls of my office for hours on end. The bustling energy of the city engulfs me, distracting me from the mundane tasks that seem to make up most of my days.
I navigate through the throngs of people walking down the street, each lost in their own world. I make my way toward the cafe across the street, knowing damn well that's the best choice to get our coffees. I'm hoping they have some good lunch options as well.
As I walk in through their door aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air. There's a sweet scent to the cafe as well, and as I scan the space I see a multitude of sweet options and deli sandwiches.
The quaint cafe stands nestled between two other office buildings, which is odd for being in the middle of Manhattan. I'm truly surprised someone didn't buy this building, just to tear it down, and rebuild something that goes up twenty or thirty floors like the others beside it.
It's nice, though. A rustic charm that you don't find too often in major cities like this.
I approach the counter and the barista standing behind it greets me with a warm smile. Her apron is dusted with powdered sugar and her eyes sparkle with excitement.
"Hello, Sir. How can I help you today?"
"A medium vanilla latte, medium toffee latte, two warm chocolate croissants, and two of your most popular lunch options, please."
"Certainly. Is that going to be it for you?"
"Yes, thank you."
Within five minutes I've paid, have the food and drink order, and I'm making my way back into my office building. As soon as I step off the elevator, Regina's eyes dart upward. I walk over to her desk and give her the options. "Vanilla, or toffee?"
"Vanilla, please."
I hand her the vanilla latte, as well as a chocolate croissant. "Do you want a fire-roasted tomato and pesto panini with prosciutto, or a ham and Swiss panini on a baguette with roasted garlic aioli?"
"Ham and swiss, please. Thank you so much, Mr. Volkolv. You didn't have to do this."
"It's no problem. I know my reputation isn't the greatest, but I will always show appreciation for those who do their jobs."
"Mr. Volkolv, your father showed up. He said he'd wait for you back in your office and I...I tried to get him to wait but he refused."
