“Ivan,” he says. “Still here,” I reply. “Still alive.” Kuzmo is holding the phone to my ear. I’m not allowed to touch it, even under the scrutiny of all these men. “Are you well, brother?” Dom says. “Of course. And you?” “Very well. Business runs smooth. The deposit will be sent as usual.” “Good, thank you. I keep busy here, too. Reading in the morning. Then,” a short pause, “I spend evenings exercising so no opportunity wastes.” “Good, brother. Keep it up,” Dom says. Kuzmo pulls the phone away before I can say anything else. No matter. I told Dominik what I needed to say.
