Page 67 of The Arrangement

Just as we're wrapping up our conversation, headlights slice through the darkness—a welcome interruption. It's Irina's car, and my heart does a little leap at the thought of seeing Adelina.

Nicky catches the change in atmosphere and decides it's his time to bow out. "Guess that's my signal," he murmurs before slipping away as quietly as he came.

The moment the car door swings open, Adelina's out and into my arms like a shot. "Papa!" she exclaims, wrapping her little arms around me as tightly as she can. I hug her back, feeling the weight of the world melt away in her embrace. It's one of those moments, so full of love and relief, that you wish you could freeze in time.

Soon after, we're all settled in the car, Irina taking the driver's seat like she's piloting us back to normalcy. Tory leans against me, her warmth a comforting presence, and Adelina, ever the daddy's girl, rests her head on my shoulder. As we pull away, I reflect on the life I've chosen, the dangers and the unpredictability of that life.

But in moments like this, surrounded by the people I love, I’m reminded why it's worth it. Life in the Bratva is a rollercoaster, but these moments of peace, of simple human connection, they're what keep me grounded. They're a reminder to savor every second of love and calm.

I vow to treasure every one of them.

Epilogue I

Maksim

Seven months later…

"Ican't believe I let you two talk me into this," I grumble, looking down at Howard the Great Dane currently enjoying a bath more than I am. My arms are covered in suds, and Howard, oblivious to the chaos he's caused, wags his tail, splashing soapy water everywhere.

Tory with her big, rounded belly, sidles up next to me, her warmth a stark contrast to the cold water. "Thank you," she says, pressing a quick kiss to my cheek. "There's no way I could have managed this."

I can't help but soften at her gratitude, despite the mess. "Yeah, well," I start, trying to maintain my gruff demeanor, "next time, Ty and Cassie better keep a closer eye on him. Speaking of which..." My voice trails off, expecting to see Ty skulking around, avoiding the chaos.

From across the room, Ty's voice carries over, laced with humor. "I'm on poop patrol over here! You think this is a walk in the park?" His laughter echoes, and I shake my head, unable to suppress my own chuckle.

Adelina, ever eager to be involved, claps her hands in delight at the sight of Howard enjoying his bath. "Papa, Howard looks so happy!" she exclaims, her enthusiasm infectious.

Looking around at the makeshift family we've formed, here in this moment of domestic chaos at the doggie daycare, I realize there's nowhere else I'd rather be. The life I lead feels miles away when I'm here with them, elbow deep in soapy water, surrounded by laughter and love.

The day's work might be unconventional for a man of my background, but in this life we're building, every moment is a gift—even the messy ones.

I finally manage to hoist Howard out of the tub. The moment he's free, he starts shaking, sending a fresh wave of water all over us. "Ah, come on, Howard!" I laugh, even as I'm drenched yet again.

Adelina's squeals of delight fill the room as she chases after Howard, towel in hand. "Papa, look! I'm gonna get him dry!" she declares, her determination as strong as her laughter.

Howard, thrilled with this new game, bounds around with the energy only a Great Dane can muster. "He thinks you're playing chase, Ade!" I call out, watching the joyous chaos unfold.

Adelina, undeterred, giggles and darts after Howard, who's more than happy to keep the game going. Watching them, a laugh escapes me, and I realize this wet, laughter-filled moment is perfect.

"You're gonna need a bigger towel!" I tease.

By the time we're wrapping up for the day, Adelina and I are both beat. The doggie daycare has a way of draining every ounce of energy you thought you had, and then some. Ty and Cassie shout their goodbyes as we head toward the door, the familiar sounds of the daycare fading behind us.

Tory locks the front door, turning to us with a smile. "Ready to head home?" she asks, a tired but content note in her voice. She pauses, her hand flying to her belly. Her eyes go wide as she looks over at me, a mix of surprise and urgency clear as day. "I think it's time."

I freeze, caught completely off guard. "Is that the first contraction?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

She shakes her head, her expression serious. "No, but this is the one that tells me it's really happening."

For a moment, my exhaustion vanishes, replaced by a jolt of adrenaline. And then there's Adelina, her excitement palpable, her scream of joy filling the air. "I'm going to have a little sister!" Her enthusiasm is infectious, her joy a bright spot in the sudden rush of the moment.

The reality of the situation hits me full force—we're about to welcome another member into our family. Every worry, every bit of tiredness, fades into the background. This is it, the moment we've been preparing for, and all I can think about is Tory and our soon-to-be-born daughter.

As we all scramble into the car, Adelina immediately charmingly takes charge. "Okay, remember. Inhale, one, two, three... and exhale," she instructs with an earnest focus that would be comical if it weren't so incredibly sweet.

From the driver's seat, I steal glances in the rearview mirror, watching this beautiful scene unfold. Tory plays along, following Adelina's instructions with a smile. "Like this, Ade?" Tory asks, her voice full of amusement and love.

"That’s right! You got it!" Adelina encourages, her role as the big sister already in full swing. My heart couldn't possibly be fuller; the love and connection flowing through our car feels like a tangible force.

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