Page 33 of Hostage of the Bratva

Sergei nodded his head. “I’m heading home, you stay safe now. We’ll make a plan once everyone else is up, okay?” headded before walking off. Ashan and I stood watching as Sergei waved his men and drove off.

Ashan’s men were assisting mine in assessing the damage and get the ones that needed medical treatment to a hospital. “One of my men found this,” Ashan said, holding out a paper for me to look at.

It appeared to be a segment of a brief. There were three pages, a bit dusty, crumpled, and torn, but I could make out about half the content. It contained photos of some family members and notes on Skyler and me. Images of her and Bunny and a part that stated their plans.

This last part, however, was the most damaged. We could make out the times for tonight’s attack, though.

Hearing movement behind us, we both swung around, and Ashan even pulled his gun. “Hey,” Skyler said, bringing her hands up in front of her face. Bunny started growling beside her as I placed my hand on Ashan’s gun and pushed it down.

“So sorry, I’m sorry,” Ashan blurted out, placing his gun back in its holster. “You startled us.”

“It’s okay,” I added, stepping closer to her. “Quiet down, Bunny,” I said, rubbing his head before placing my arm around Skyler. Her touch was so light it sent a shiver down my spine. Yet, it was warm and welcoming.

“I hope you’re feeling better, hun. You can go back to bed,” I added, kissing her forehead.

“Feeling better but not going back to bed,” she said, smiling at me. “I was thinking breakfast?”

“Yes, yes, yes,” Ashan chanted, his smile lighting up his deep blue eyes. One was more an icy blue and the other was just a deep blue, unlike mine, which were two different colors.

“Who said you’re invited,” I taunted as we moved back inside.

Skyler stepped out of my hold and walked in before us. “You can’t expect a man to leave his home this time of the morning and not give him some kind of reward,” Skyler spoke, looking back at me over her shoulder.

Ashan and I both burst out laughing. “She’s a keeper,” he added as we sat at the table while Skyler started breakfast.

She smiled warmly as she made some toast, bacon, and eggs. I wasn’t even aware I had so much food available, but somehow, she made a great breakfast. Even Bunny had some bacon with us, as there was more than we expected.

After we ate, Ashan thanked her for the meal and left. We would meet up a bit later at Ivan’s club. Once we were all washed and dressed, we also headed out. The sun had lazily made its way up and was shining brightly. We took Bunny with us as I didn’t want to take any chances on her brother returning.

The club was still closed for normal business, and we had to enter through the side doors. We were surprised by all the family. It seemed everyone was gathered there.

The inside of the club had been changed so much that I didn’t even recognize the place. It was like we stepped into a storybook. Small lights hung from the ceiling in rows, casting a golden glow over everything. There were rows of glittering stones and some with flowers. It was everywhere.

Skyler let go of my arm and turned in a circle, staring at the magnificent display in awe. “It’s so romantic,” she said, looking at me.

The tables were all lined up on the two sides of the floor. On each was a platter with food, champagne, plates, and glasses. At the front of the stage was a flower arch with Ivan waiting for us. “What is this,” Skyler inquired looking around.

Sergei stepped forward, out of the family, grouped to the side, holding a black clothing bag. “We thought it best to get it done if you want?” he said, handing over the bag.

Beaming, Skyler slid across the floor, taking the bag from him. “The other one is still back at the yacht,” she added, grinning. He nodded, and she followed the woman to the back to get changed.

Ivan waved us to the bar as he walked over smiling. “We weren’t sure if she would agree, but we are glad for you,” he said, handing me a shot. My heart filled with love for my family. It was a bit strange to see Ivan like this, though. I had become used to his grins but a full smile.

Sergei held his glass up and turned to me, grinning. “Here’s to the rest of your life, Luder.”

We cheered and downed the vodka shot. “Don’t get me wrong,” I said, tapping my glass on the counter before placing it down. “I was just as surprised. I didn’t expect this after the recent events. But I must thank you all.”

As we finished our second shot, music started playing. “It’s time to get married,” Ivan said, returning to the flower arch.

Ashan and Sergei stood with me as Roman led Skyler through the tables. I couldn’t help the grin forming as Skyler walked towards me. She looked stunning, her beauty undeniable.

The white lacy dress sat tight over her breasts and flared out as it went down her legs. There were two slits up the sides which allowed her legs to move through and be seen as she walked.

Her hair was done up like before, and the golden crown made her sparkle. I felt like the luckiest man on earth as she placed her hand in mine, and we turned to face Ivan. This time, we would get it right.

“Seeing as we are gathered for a second time, let’s skip the first part,” Ivan announced, winking at Skyler. She softly nodded in agreement, looking very pleased.

Ivan glanced around the room. “We’re gathered here for the marriage of Skyler and Luder. Is there anything the two of you want to say?” he asked, looking from her to me.

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