They’ve dated in secret for a good few years until Nikolai proposed. It’s been a long time now and Nikolai made a rather spacious apartment above the garage where he keeps his chopper (that’s probably not the safest in all honesty.) Despite being his age, he was still going at his work. But after a knee accident he’s taking a long break. His husband was part of the reason he was thinking of retiring, especially after there was a break in scare. He wanted to ensure their home was a sanctuary, a place where they could feel safe and secure together. The apartment, though cozy, was filled with the remnants of their life together—photos of their travels, mementos from their dates, and a collection of knick knacks from Nikolai’s work. Yet, despite the warmth of their shared space, Nikolai couldn't shake the lingering unease from the break-in.

Despite that, he aimed to go back to work after his medical leave was over.

Nikolai was working in the garage, on top of his chopper tightening the blades and listening to some loud music. Not loud enough to wake you upstairs, of course. He doesn’t notice as Laswell walks in. “Nik.” She calls, when she gets no response she sighs. “Nikolai!”

“Laswell.”

Nikolai pauses and waits for her to continue. Laswell chuckles, almost amused, as she walks over to the computer on a cart. “Really?”

“Makarov?”

“World travels fast.”

“Only if he wants it to.” Nikolai says, turning to get off the chopper and walking around to the cart. “You think he’s working with the kremlin?”

“I wouldn’t be surprised.” Nikolai sighed

“I have a contact who might know the answer.” Laswell says, walking over to Nikolai as he sets the wrench down on the cart. “I need transport.” The man looks over at her. “Where?”

“Arklov military base.” She says

Nikolai turns around by the front of the chopper and shakes his head slightly. “It’s heavily guarded..”

“Can you do it?” Laswell asks bluntly.

He looks up and sighs. “To stop Makarov? Of course.” He says with a half smile.