Page 53 of Auctioned to the Bratva

Roman and Yuri stepped in beside me. “See, it’s easy.” They said in unison as they lightly shoved me forward.

Irina was blushing even more. I took her in my arms as I whispered in her ear. “I’m sorry for my family.” Irina smiled at me and gently touched my cheek.

“It’s fine,” she said. “I know them this way.” Irina turned to the table and placed her hands on her hips. “Now, now,” she started. “When the time is right, we will let you know.”

Oleg lifted his glass. “I’ll drink to that child.” He spoke out, and everyone took their seats again.

I was relieved that their teasing was over as we shared another drink. Noticing the day would be turning to night soon, I just wanted to leave. There was someplace else I wanted to take Irina.

Making up an excuse for us to leave, we said our goodbyes and headed to my car. Ivan and Reina walked with us this time and waved as we rode out.

“That was fun, right?” Irina asked as we turned onto Ocean Road.

“Yeah, it kind of was,” I replied, smiling at her.

“Where are we going, I thought we were heading home?” Irina inquired as we drove.

“I made a booking for us, for dinner,” I said smiling warmly at her. “I’m sure I told you this morning, didn’t I?”

Irina shook her head, “Not that I can remember. So, where are we going?” she insisted.

Removing the blindfold from my pocket, I leaned forward. “If I tell you, I have to kill you,” I blurted out smiling. “To make it worse, I have to blindfold you now.”

Irina brought her hands up to the blindfold as I moved to tie it around her head. “Is this really needed?” she asked, pulling lightly at it. “I can always just close my eyes.”

Laughing, I pulled it from her grip and bound it around her head. “No, not you. Remember I know you and you don’t like surprises. Plus, you can never wait to open your eyes.”

Irina lowered her arms allowing me to tie the blindfold. We rounded a corner, and the building came into view. Just in time, I thought as I held her hand.

The car pulled up to the front. I got out and ran to her side. Opening the door, I took her hand and eased her out. “Can I look now?” she asked sounding a bit nervous.

“Irina,” I replied. “You are safe and no, just a little while longer dear.”

I led her through the large double doors into the building. Glancing around I was amazed at how much was done within days. The place surely had a facelift and looked astounding.

Walking through the entrance hall and up a couple of steps we came to the new dining hall. In the middle was a table set for two. The lights were dimmed just enough to create the perfect romantic atmosphere.

I swallowed hard as I led her to her chair and assisted her to sit down. My mind and heart were in conflict. I could only hope that she would see this for the release I intended it to be. There was still a lot to be done. I felt sure she would also like to have a say in how things were to be done.

So, the place was not finished, I thought. But the dining hall was practically complete. The kitchen was operational, and the rest would follow soon. I could only hope she would not be offended. If she was, this entire evening would end up being a bust.

As I took my seat opposite her, I raised a hand, showing the server to step closer. “Irina,” I started as I leaned forward and took her hands in mine. “Before I remove the blindfold, I am going to ask that you keep a level head.” I swallowed hard. “Look around and hear me out before you say anything, okay?” I asked.

Irina was quiet for a bit before shaking her head in agreement. I nodded at the waiter to remove the blindfold. Irina blinked a couple of times and then surveyed the area in silence.

After a minute or two, which felt like an eternity, she focused her gaze on me. “Sergei,” she said as I felt her grip on my hands tighten. “Are we?”

Even with the changes already made to the place, I knew she would still recognize it. “Hear me out Irina,” I said, squeezing her hands. She blinked rapidly as tears filled her eyes.

“The only way to truly rid yourself of the scars you have lived through is to take charge and change the memories,” I added feeling sweat breaking out on my forehead.

“I bought this place. I know it holds awful reminders of your near-actioning experience. But we can change it into something beautiful you and I.” As I spoke, the first tear rolled down her cheek.

“Karine, Evelina, and Sam will also assist. They are excited to help you turn this place into anything you want.” I blurted out trying to soothe her.

“You can add a spa to the restaurant area we are building. You can even add shops or a nursery school. Anything you want, the building is yours to mold into something good.”

I rose and leaned over the table wiping at the tear on her cheek. Irina looked like she was about to faint as her face turned white. I walked around to her and picked her up into my arms.

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