I really love the idea of Alec and Nikolai as... "associates," and I love what you've done with them here. I love how we get a good sense of Alec's ruthlessness and wariness in a very matter-of-fact way. (Also, I love seeing poor Kirill through Alec's eyes.) I am especially taken by how possessive Alec is, and how he doesn't seem to quite acknowledge it. And oh, how hot is Alec's fantasy of taking Nikolai? I love the pride he takes in his work too! ^_~