Chapter 7 FOR THE SAKE OF FRIENDSHIP!

NIKOLAI'S POV

I was seething. How dare that idiot mistreat my sister? The mere thought of it made my blood boil. I took a deliberate sip from my cup, trying to calm the storm within me

“No, he’s going to learn his lesson,” I said, setting the cup down firmly as we settled in at a bar for the evening.

Ronan, my loyal friend, looked up from his own drink.

“What’s your plan for making him pay?” he asked, giving me an undivided attention.

“First, we dig into his company, uncover every detail we can. Then we’ll make sure he never forgets the price he’s paying,” I declared with unwavering resolve.

“We should definitely bring Storm on board. He’s the best at this kind of investigation.” Ronan’s eyes sharpened with determination.

“Exactly. Once we have the evidence, we act,” I agreed.

"I don't fucking know why Liora will settle for someone as that" I sighed with resignation.

“By the way, how’s the Ravenwood branch coming along? When are you heading over?” I changed the subject, my tone more reflective.

“All set on my end. The staff is in place; we’re just waiting for the grand opening,” Ronan replied, though his enthusiasm seemed lacking.

“You don’t seem thrilled about the move,” I observed, noting his unease.

“It’s Dad’s decision. If it were up to me, Robin would have taken the assignment,” he admitted.

“Your father clearly has more faith in you,” I pointed out.

“Please, Nikolai, don’t flatter me,” Ronan chuckled, though his discomfort was evident.

“I’m not flattering you. Your father sees the potential in you, the drive to make this new branch a success,” I said earnestly.

"Alright, I get your point. But leaving home is still tough." he sighed.

“Understood. So, are you considering getting a place in Ravenwood?” I asked, curious about his future plans.

“No, I’m not planning to stay long-term. It’s a good spot for business, but my heart belongs to Veridian,” he said with a hint of finality.

“That’s good to know. At least I won’t miss you too much,” I said, filling my glass.

Ronan laughed. “Maybe you should find a partner yourself. It might give you less time to hassle me.”

“Look who’s talking. You should find someone too. We’re not getting any younger,” I teased.

“Don’t remind me of how old we both are,” he laughed. “But who knows? I might just surprise you.”

“We will soon be clocking Thirty-four, my friend,” I said with a smirk, raising my glass.

"I will surprise you my friend, you just wait and see" I said, raising a glass at him.

“From all indications, Audrey has captured a special place in your heart?” he joked.

“I don’t know what she’s done, but I’m definitely falling for her, your guy is in love” he admitted with a smile.

Ronan raised an eyebrow. “I thought we were immune to that.”

“Apparently not,” I shrugged.

“What about you and Laura? Any developments there?” I shifted the topic to him.

RONAN'S POV

I shrugged, trying to keep my discomfort hidden. “It’s nothing serious. Just some light flirting.”

“I thought there was something between you two?” Nikolai’s eyes were sharp, searching for the truth.

“Not really. Laura’s from a wealthy family, but she’s too carefree and lacks ambition. She’s all about parties and shopping, which doesn’t really appeal to me,” I said, my frustration evident. “Nowadays, people admire hard work and determination more.”

“So, there’s nothing more?” he pressed.

“No, it’s just casual. Nothing deeper,” I confirmed.

Inside, I struggled with conflicting emotions. I had felt a genuine spark with Liora, Nikolai’s sister, a feeling I’d never experienced before. But I must keep this secret, cause it will definitely ruin our friendship.

Nikolai noticed my distracted look. “Are you alright? You seem lost in thought.”

“Just a bit preoccupied,” I said, taking another sip of my drink.

“If something’s bothering you, let me know,” he offered with concern.

"I think that I have feelings for your baby sister and it's strong and genuine" I thought in my head but of course, I dare not say that to him.

“It’s nothing,” I assured him as we both relaxed.

As we continued talking and laughing, my internal warning echoed:

For the sake of your friendship, stay away from Nikolai’s sister.

I took another sip, trying to stay focused on the conversation.