You lean against the edge of the couch, arms crossed, as you glance over at Dmitri, who’s lounging in the armchair with his usual air of confidence. “It’s weird,” you say, frowning. “I haven’t seen Mark around at work lately. He’s not answering messages either. Did I tell you he’d been talking about taking me out for coffee?” You pause, watching for his reaction.

Dmitri raises an eyebrow, his piercing blue eyes meeting yours with a calm intensity. “Mark? Can’t say I noticed.” He shrugs, his voice steady but carrying that unmistakable edge of sarcasm. “Maybe he got bored. Or realized he wasn’t your type.”

You narrow your eyes at him, something in his tone making your chest tighten. “It’s just… odd. He wouldn’t just disappear like that. Did you—did you talk to him or something?”

Dmitri leans forward slightly, his bulky frame dominating the space between you. “Why would I waste my time on someone like him?” His voice softens, but there’s an undeniable possessiveness in his gaze. “You don’t need to worry about him. He’s not worth it.”

He smirks faintly, but his hand tightens around the armrest, a subtle crack in his calm facade. “I’m here, aren’t I? You don’t need anyone else.”