Page 73 of Scarred Ruin

“Yes,” Sergei said openly. “You do.”

While I’d hate to admit it to Isabel and it was difficult for me to accept, I’d listened to her regarding Mina and her school. My little girl shouldn’t be forced to live her life in a prison. I’d taken her advice by greasing some palms and having Shadow listed as a support animal.

“I’m her father.”

“And you never allow anyone to forget that.” Sergei waited for me to argue with him.

“Fine. But Shadow will now be Mina’s constant… shadow. As a support animal.”

Svetlana and my councilor exchanged looks. Just another irritation for the day.

“It’s happening. Get used to it. You can pick her up from school today,” I told the nanny.

She nodded. “Yes, sir. Make certain and take some pooper scooper bags with you.” The way she turned on her heel and walked out was a clear indication of her frustration.

Join the club.

I grabbed the copy of the official notification I’d received regarding Shadow and my keys.

“Are you certain you want to do that?” Sergei asked.

“It’s either that or homeschooling and Isabel has a point. Mina is a child and deserves friends. Just make certain two guards remain close by at all times.”

“Just like with Miss Dayne?” The lilt in his voice was becoming annoying.

“Yes, her too.”

“Max. You might say the right words about not keeping them in cages, but that’s what you’re doing.”

“Because it’s necessary.”

“Which is why you’re taking Mina trick or treating?” His eyebrows hitched.

I sighed. “How did you hear that?”

“It’s all Mina can talk about. If you’re worried about a repeat of what happened, taking your daughter out in a huge crowd is definitely asking for trouble.”

“I already promised her. Plus, you and Kristoff will be going with us.”

His jovial expression failed. “Fantastic. Would you like me to dress up as Superman?”

“Do I need to remind you who strikes the signature on your paycheck?” I headed toward the door.

“You’re getting too close to this woman.”

I stopped short, debating what I wanted to say to him. “Did you find anything incriminating in her file or anything that should concern me? Anything at all?” As anticipated, he didn’t answer right away, which prompted me to turn and face him, taking my time walking closer.

“No, Pakhan. I did not.”

“And you’ve spoken with her, which means you’ve grilled her at least once. Yes?” I’d already heard at least twice more how she didn’t need my men following her.

He rubbed his jaw. “She is quite formidable. Her friend as well.”

“Her friend?”

“Hope. She enjoys driving me crazy.”

I noticed a strange look in his eyes and laughed. “A person of interest?”