Arseniy Popov, secretary

Office. Evening.

Anton stared at the monitor, drumming his fingers. Arseny was sorting through papers, glancing at him.

"My dad called," Anton said. "He asked about Sever. He said everything was under control."

— And in reality?

"I'm afraid of screwing up. He's watching. Always. What if I screw up his deal? His business?"

Arseniy put the folder aside and came closer.
"You won't fail. Because I'm here. And because you make the decisions. Not him."

Anton looked up:
— And you? Are you watching too?

"I'm watching," Arseny answered intently. "And I see. You're not frivolous. You're tired of pretending. But I'm not here to praise you. I'm here to keep you from dying."

Anton chuckled:

• That's why you're with me?

"No." Arseny stepped closer. "I'm with you because you're the only one I'm going through all this paperwork for. And you don't need his approval. I already approved of you. A long time ago."

Anton froze.

• Then stay close. Not as a secretary. Just.

Arseniy nodded towards the table:
"I'm always here. Now sign. The door is locked. You won't get out until you do it."

Anton smiled:

• Dictator.

"Your dictator," Arseniy replied warmly. "Work."