At this particular dinner, everything about Anton Semyonovich’s behavior said one thing—don’t even think about leaving me. The way he carried himself made it clear who was in control. Yet at the same time, he never openly showed possessiveness. He allowed his young mistress her freedom and didn’t demand much—just respect. Maybe because Victoria was skilled at playing the role of the sweet, innocent girl in love. In truth, what guided her was caution and a tough life experience. She acted carefully, always avoiding missteps. She had mastered the art of seduction and manipulation. She had a dozen masks in her arsenal, allowing her to wriggle out of almost any situation. Even a clever, seasoned man like Anton Semyonovich trusted her completely. They had agreed that after her internship ended, she’d move out of the dorm and into her own apartment, managing a small business he’d set up for her. She wanted that more than anything.
But since starting a relationship with Robert, something inside her had shifted. Something had clicked. She found herself considering a different life plan. And to her surprise, she started thinking—maybe she didn’t need all that… the money, the gifts, the beauty salon. Maybe being with her love, even in a modest home, would be enough. Or maybe not. Maybe she still needed it all. Time would tell.
If Anton Semyonovich had known her secret thoughts and desires about another man—a man who could make her genuinely happy—maybe he would have let her go peacefully. Maybe he’d allow her to marry and build a family. After all, she was still so young. Yes, Robert had settled into her thoughts.
Why not?
Lately, she’d grown so attached to him. She could already picture herself spending the rest of her life with him.
“What are you thinking about, my beauty?” her benefactor asked, brushing her cheek with his hand. “Your eyes are glowing.”
“Just dreaming,” Victoria replied, flashing a gentle smile.
“About me?” he teased, chuckling and coughing lightly.
“Of course, darling. Who else?”
He signaled to his man, who was seated nearby. The man approached and placed a small bag on the table. Anton Semyonovich took out a square velvet box and opened it.
Victoria’s eyes widened at the dazzling sight—rubies framed with diamonds, glowing red. Her mouth parted, and she stared at her generous lover in awe. He pushed the box toward her with a satisfied smile and said, “For you.”