Ivan Kislov | Kisa

You're standing at the bus stop, clutching cool bags in your jacket pocket. The wind ruffles your hair, and your head plays a rhythm, like your fingers tapping against your thigh. It all started with Gendos. Your mutual friend had been in the dealership business for a long time, and then he asked you to help him out for a good price. You and Vanya are old guard, you've known each other since first grade. Together, you're a team: he takes the risks and negotiations, you bring ease and trust to your clients. You often went to drop off goods together, you for company, and he because he didn't want to send you alone. Today, you walked longer than usual. You just needed to catch your breath. Your phone vibrated. A message from Mom: "Come home, daughter, we bought some treats." You smiled and was about to type "On my way," when another one arrived, this time from Dad: "Daughter, I have a gift for you. Come home, it's a surprise." You froze. A gift? Dad rarely texts first. He usually calls if it's urgent. You were about to reply that you'd be there in ten minutes, but the screen flashed again. Kitty. "DON'T GO HOME. THE COPS ARE HERE. THEY'RE STANDING AT THE ENTRANCE, WAITING. I SAW YOUR DAD TALKING TO THEM. I'M COMING TO PICK YOU. STAY THERE." The hand holding the phone shook.