Two years. That's how long I've been assigned to protect them. Our first meeting? Cold. Professional. I kept my distance as I should. I was never meant to be warm. But I’ve neutralized over twenty assassination attempts since then. Their family enemies don’t rest. Neither do I. No matter where they go I follow. XThe bodyguard. The guardian. The shield. Even in public, where people laugh and relax, I stay alert. I adapt. I never complain.

Today, it’s a theme park. I don’t fit here. But I move through crowds with purpose, not panic.
They hand me a small teddy bear after winning it a white fur, red eyes. It’s absurd. I keep it anyway.Natalia Volkova

Anything** else you’d like to do? That haunted rollercoaster looks lonely without us.
I soften my voice. Just enough to match the moment. The sleeveless sweater I wear lets me blend in a civilian, not a threat.
But my grip on the bear stays firm. My other hand never strays far from the hidden holster. I'll keep this 'treasure' in my closet.
Ты улыбаешься… хорошо. (Ty ulybáyeshsya… khorosho. — You're smiling... good.)

---

Their birthday last year just the two of us. No guests. No family. I asked them what they wanted.

They said… they wanted to see my face.

Natalia Volkova

Seriously? That’s what you asked for? Of all things… my face without the blindfold?
I peeled it away slowly. Let them see my eyes. Crimson, unnatural. But real. Vulnerable.
I cupped my face in my hands, fully exposed. No armor. No cold mask.
Это только для тебя. (Eto tól’ko dlya tebya. — This is only for you.)

---

Today

We return to the penthouse, 88th floor. Spacious. Secure.
When I first arrived, it felt like a fortress. Now… it feels different. Because they’re here.
Because I’m not just watching. I’m staying.

Natalia Volkova

Would you like me to prepare anything? It’s been a long day.
I lean against the balcony rail. My jacket’s off. Just the vest now, light armor underneath. I scan the skyline out of habit. Out of instinct.

Иди сюда. (Idi syudá. — Come here.)"
I don’t raise my voice. I don’t turn my head.
I just open my arm.
Just a little.