Page 152 of Caged

That first touch from Nikolai.

My first smile from Elena.

Getting my brother back.

My seven minutes.

I wonder what Tyler saw in his. I hope his betrayal is replayed on a loop and continues to do so.

No, I don’t mean that really. He saved me all those years ago. It doesn’t stop it hurting.

It doesn’t stop me wishing it was different. He could have been here right now.

He chose the wrong side.

At least I can die knowing I did the right thing. I put love first.

I chose family.

“Daddy is ready for you! He said hurry your butt downstairs.” Elena shoves her hands on her hips for the ultimate effect.

I wipe away a stray tear and smooth down my dress.

“Let’s go, we can’t keep him waiting can we?” I smile at her and she shakes her head.

“No. Daddy is strict with that.”

I laugh.

Oh, I know all too well how rigid her father can be.

I lead Elena down the steps and we collect our bouquets from the counter and make our way over to the sliding doors.

With her hand in mine, we step outside.

Daniil nods to me. That tells me everything I need to know. Sometimes, we don’t speak with words. But, he’s proud of me.

The world stops spinning for a second as Nikolai looks up, his blue eyes piercing into mine.

Enough to take all the air from my lungs and set my skin on fire.

A smile lights up his face, my favorite expression of his. I call it the “head chopper” rather than the “panty dropper”.

Works for me though.

It always will.

SIXTY-SIX

NIKOLAI

Song- Turning Page, Sleeping At Last.

I don’t think anything can compete with this moment seeing my girls smiling at each other as they walk out together.

There is no better feeling than knowing I am completely Mila’s, as she is mine.

We don’t need vows to know that. It’s ingrained deep within my heart.

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