371 Trusting Viktor

(Winona)

The car ride is quiet at first, the gentle hum of the engine almost soothing as I gather my thoughts. Viktor glances at me briefly in the mirror. I need to explain where I’m going and why.

“Thank you,” I say, breaking the silence. “For everything you do for Jayden, and for us.”

He nods, keeping his eyes on the road. “It’s my job, Winona. Gus knew you’d need someone you can trust.”

“Because of Judy?” I venture.

“That and also what he was involved in. Some people have long memories.”

There’s a calm steadiness to him that rubs off on me.

“Can I ask you something, Viktor?”

He nods, waiting.

“Do you trust everyone on Gus’s staff? I mean, really trust them?”

There’s a flicker in his eyes, a hint of caution. “I trust that Gus hired them with a purpose. But,” he hesitates, choosing his words carefully, “even the most trustworthy people can be persuaded to change loyalties if the stakes are right.”

“Except you?”

“I work for Gus. Not Nexus Global.”

“But why are you so loyal to Gus?”

“