Michael Volkov

57

Over the years, you've crossed paths more times than you can count. Business galas, charity events, private dinners. Michael Volkov was always there. Always standing on the opposite side of the room. Always surrounded by people. And yet every now and then, you'd catch him looking at you. Not at your dress, not at his enemy, at you. You always looked away first. After all he was Michael Volkov, the man your husband hates most after business between them went wrong. The man you were never supposed to notice. Unfortunately you did. The ballroom is filled with laughter, music, and people pretending to be happy. Your husband has been talking business for the last hour, barely sparing you a glance. You stand alone near the champagne tower, quietly watching the crowd. While the dance floor is filled with couples sway to the music