As Vladim moved to turn the locks, I heard Genya whisper. "You definitely owe me a kiss after all this, Don't think I won't hold you to it."
I laughed lightly. "We'll see."
"There is no seeing, you will, if I have to be the one to do it then so be...
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THE NEXT MORNING, I FOUND NIKOLAI ON THE EASTERN terrace taking weather readings. Mal, Alina and Genya's team was set to depart within the hour and was only waiting for the all clear. I pulled up my hood. It wasn't quite snowing, but a few flakes had settled on my cheeks and hair.
"How does everything look?" I asked, handing Nikolai a glass of tea.
"Not bad," he replied. "Gusts are mild, and the pressure's holding steady. They may have it rough through the mountains, but it shouldn't be anything the Bittern can't handle."
I heard the door open behind me, and Genya and Tamar stepped out onto the terrace. They were dressed in peasants clothes, fur hats, and study wool coats.
"Are we a go?" Tamar asked. She was trying to seem calm, but I could hear the barely leashed excitement in her voice. Behind her, I saw Nadia with her face pressed against the glass, awaiting the verdict.
Nikolai nodded. "You're a go."
Tamar's grin was blinding. She managed a restrained bow, then turned to Nadia and gave her the signal. Nadia whooped and broke into something between a seizure and a dance.
Nikolai laughed. "If only she'd show a little enthusiasm."
"Be safe," I said as I embraced Tamar.
"Take care of Tolya for me," she replied. Then she whispered, "We left the cobalt lace in your trunk. Wear that tonight."
I rolled my eyes and gave her a shove. I knew I would see them all in a week, but I was surprised at how much I was going to miss them.
There was an awkward pause as I faced Genya. Her ocean eyes were vibrant in the gray morning light. The coin in my hand twinged.
"I love you," I whispered. "Please be careful, and don't have too much fun without me."
Genya smirked and pulled me in for a kiss. I squeaked in surprise. Tease.
She pulled away and whispered. "I can't imagine having any fun— especially if you aren't there."
I laughed and kissed her cheek.
Nikolai gave an awkward cough. I rolled my eyes and glanced his way— he huffed and turned around.
"You know— if you'd let me. I could definitely push him over the ledge." Genya said.
