Page 12 of Dark Prince

“They seem formidable, for sure,” I comment, watching the brothers and Grigori confer with their heads together.

Elena shrugs, a playful smirk on her lips. “Formidable, charming, occasionally terrifying—that’s the typical description of the men in the Ivanov Bratva. But to me, they're family. Around here, that's what really matters.”

Elena turns back to me. “They probably came out here to talk about business matters. We can just ignore them.”

Despite her nonchalant attitude, I can't help but feel wary around these men, who seem somewhat intimidating even at a distance.

I watch them for a moment longer. They interact with an ease and familiarity that speaks of a long and shared history. Yet, beneath the casual demeanor, I sense an undercurrent of something more sinister—undoubtedly related to the life they lead as members of a crime dynasty.

This garden may be a peaceful retreat, but I know that beyond its borders, there is a dangerous and frightening world.

Chapter 6

Maura

“See these bushes? They’re hydrangeas. They're one of my favorites in the entire garden,” Elena says, gently touching the shrub, which is just beginning to bud. “The color of the blooms change depending on the pH of the soil. It's fascinating, really.”

“I had no idea flowers could do that,” I respond, genuinely intrigued.

Elena nods, her eyes bright with passion for the subject. “Oh, yes. The garden is full of little surprises like that. Come, see the hibiscus.”

She leads me to another raised bed. “These will produce beautiful pink flowers that attract butterflies. The individual blooms don’t last long, but when they flower, they’re breathtaking.”

I gaze at the plant, trying to picture it in bloom. “I’m sure they're stunning,” I say softly.

Elena smiles, pleased. “I'm glad you like them. This garden is a bit of a sanctuary for me. I come here often to escape from daily pressures.”

I listen intently as Elena continues to explain each plant we pass and describe its intricacies. Her enthusiasm for the garden is evident in her every word. But as much as I try to focus on what she’s saying, my mind keeps drifting back to the events of last night.

Images involuntarily flood my mind. I picture Luk and his brothers—cold and merciless—extracting information from the man who tried to kill me. I imagine him being tortured and beaten to death. The thought of it is unsettling and a little overwhelming.

Suddenly, I freeze as dizziness envelops me. I feel like I might faint.

“Hey, are you okay?” Elena’s voice sounds like it’s coming from far away.

“It’s… I…” I can’t even form a coherent thought.

“Here. Come with me.”

Elena quickly guides me to a nearby bench situated in front of the fountain. I listen to the sound of the water, but it doesn’t calm me. I take a deep breath and try to steady my breathing.

Elena looks at me with concern. “Maura, what's wrong? You seem preoccupied.”

I sigh and try to articulate what’s on my mind. “It’s everything. The wedding, the assassination attempt, this new life... it's all a little much to take in.”

Elena nods with a look of understanding on her face. “I know it’s a lot. Anyone would feel overwhelmed in a similar situation.”

I shake my head, chastising myself. “I don't know why it's bothering me so much. I know what the world of Bratva is about. I’m not unaware of the violence it involves.”

Elena sits beside me and pats my hand. “It's okay to be bothered by it, Maura. Just because you know about our world doesn't mean it’s any easier to accept. It will take some time to process it, so don’t rush it.”

She reaches out and places a reassuring hand on my shoulder. “But if it's any consolation, remember that you're surrounded by people who will go to great lengths to protect you. Luk, our brothers, and me. You're part of this family now, and we take care of our own.”

Despite Elena's reassuring words, I still feel a tightness in my chest, and panic takes hold of me.

My eyes brim with tears, and I feel a deep sense of shame at my inability to keep them at bay. “I'm sorry,” I say to Elena, my voice trembling. “I shouldn't be crying. You must think I’m an emotional fool.”

To my surprise, Elena doesn't dismiss my feelings or scold me for showing emotion. Instead, she gives me a knowing look and hands me a handkerchief. “It's okay to be scared and confused, Maura. Your world changed overnight. Don't be so hard on yourself.”

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