Page 58 of Forced to Marry the Bratva

“Damien,” Lev interjects, his voice steady and rational, “We understand your concerns, but we need this information. Our family’s safety is at stake, and we have to explore every avenue. Trust us, we won’t let Gael get in trouble.”

My jaw clenches as I wrestle with my thoughts, weighing the risks and rewards. Finally, I exhale slowly, my decision made. “Alright, we’ll approach Gael.”

“Agreed,” Boris nods, his face set in grim determination. “We’ll tread lightly and keep their best interests in mind. But we need to act fast, Damien. Gerald won’t wait long to strike back.”

“Understood,” I nod. “And it’s best we keep this between us for now.”

***

After we wrap up, I leave Boris’s office. I hear footsteps behind me and Lev calls out to ask me to stop.

I turn. “What’s going on?” I inquire.

“There’s something I’ve been meaning to talk about,” he says.

“Go on,” I prompt, my patience wearing thin.

“Your involvement in the underground fighting ring,” he says bluntly, crossing his arms. “Boris has had his concerns about your marriage, and now you’ve got this secret life that could put us all at risk.”

My chest tightens as I consider his words, knowing full well the danger my actions pose. But the adrenaline-fueled release of the fights has become a lifeline I can’t just give up yet.

“Lev, I...” My voice falters, and I struggle to find the right words. “I know it’s risky, but it helps me handle everything else.”

“Handle it?” He scoffs, shaking his head. “You can’t just keep secrets like this, Damien. You’re not only putting yourself at risk but also Genevieve and the entire family.”

“Enough!” I snap, my anger flaring. “I understand the consequences. But what do you suggest I do? Quit? Just walk away?”

“Maybe,” Lev says, his tone softening. “Maybe you can find another way to deal with the stress. But for now, you need to tell Boris about the underground ring.”

“Fine,” I grit my teeth, knowing he’s right. “I’ll talk to him.”

“When?” he asks.

I say nothing.

He frowns and takes a step forward, putting a gentle hand on my shoulder. “Damien,” Lev says, “you need to promise me you’ll tell Boris about the fighting.”

The weight of his words sinks in, and I know he’s right. As much as I’ve tried to keep this part of my life separate from my family, it’s time to face the truth. I need to be honest with them.

“Alright, Lev,” I say, meeting his eyes. “I promise. After my last fight, I’ll come clean to Boris. But until it’s done, please don’t ask me about it. I need… a few more fights.”

“A few?”

“Just a few,” I nod.

“Good,” Lev nods, his expression sincere. “It’s for the best, Brother.”

Chapter 22 - Genevieve

I burst through the front door, arms laden with shopping bags after a successful spree, only to stop dead in my tracks. Gael is sitting on the couch with Damien sitting opposite him. Damien’s got his usual stony expression in place.

For a second, I can’t believe it. Then I let out a shriek of delight and rush forward, dumping the bags and throwing my arms around Gael.

“You’re here!” I cry, squeezing him tight. He looks momentarily surprised and then laughs, standing up to hug me back just as fiercely.

“Surprise!” Gael says with a grin.

I glance over at Damien, my heart swelling with gratitude. Did he arrange for Gael to visit? He must see the question in my eyes because he inclines his head in acknowledgment, a flicker of warmth in his eyes.

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