Page 34 of The Bratva King's Twins

Benedikt gave me a look of surprise as he made himself comfortable. “It seems you’ve grown soft, brother. You better start yelling to save face.”

“If you keep pushing, I’ll make sure that happens,” I muttered, waving him off. “It turns out that not being a hard-ass all the time actually builds trust.”

He laughed to himself. “I never would’ve guessed. You’re making strides, Ari.”

Scoffing, I pointed at the door. “Show yourself out, you little shit.”

Amused, Ben pulled himself up from his chair and moved toward the door. “Gladly, boss. I was planning on finishing my work early so I can go get myself a wife and find out what it’s like for myself.”

“Good luck finding one in Andrei’s clubs,” I called after him as he slipped through the door.

Lukyan roared with laughter on his way out, trailing behind Benedikt as he muttered something I couldn’t hear under his breath.

Shaking my head at how ridiculous they could be despite the serious nature of our work, the reality of the situation fell on my shoulders once I was left alone again.

The De Lucas were back on my radar just as everything seemed to be going so well with Vivian, and I couldn’t help but wonder how it would all play out.

As I looked down at the paperwork in front of me, I still couldn’t bring myself to focus on it, especially not with the news fresh in my mind.

While it wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world to let Vivian know about the potential situation, I didn’t want to alarm her. I also didn’t want her sitting at home stewing about it and considering all the bad things that might happen.

Which was why I decided I’d keep it to myself for the time being. At the very least, I wouldn’t say anything until I learned more about what was going on.

With us getting closer and Vivian beginning to open up to me, I didn’t need anything to put a wrench in it.

Things were good, and I wanted it to stay that way.

Chapter 16 - Vivian

The sun on my face was a welcome comfort as the wind swept my hair back and reminded me of how much of a joy it was to be out in the pasture, taking in my surroundings with complete appreciation.

I had just finished another perfect ride with the mare and was walking her back into the field with the others. Once I unclipped her lead, they managed to sniff out the treats in my pockets, and I fed the ones crowding around me.

There was no mistaking how much I missed being around horses, and how they had been such a light in my life during hard times. Because of my family, those memories were bittersweet, but with the new stable and the complete escape it was for me, I was able to make new ones.

I was grateful for that and beyond happy that Ari found it within himself to see how much I needed it.

Boarding a horse in another barn would’ve sufficed, but of course, it couldn’t be that straightforward with him. It was still hard to believe the ranch belonged to us, and I could go at my pleasure so long as a driver was available for me.

It wasn’t how I’d prefer to go, but it was a decent compromise for us.

Giving the last treat away, I scratched the horse between the ears before leaving the pasture.

I had already been there for several hours, and I knew I’d have to be back home soon enough anyway.

Feeling fulfilled and more than happy with how the day was playing out, I made my way back toward the stable, taking in the sights and peaceful surroundings.

Being in nature and working with horses was something I always enjoyed and pulled a lot of relief from. Over the last few weeks, I was even considering going to Ari about providing lessons for kids or beginners.

It wouldn’t be anything too ambitious or overbearing, but something to put my mind to and build some connections. It sounded rewarding, and I liked the idea of it.

But once I reached the stable, I stopped as a wave of nausea hit me out of nowhere. Bracing myself with a hand against the wall, I paused and waited for it to pass, trying to feel out just how bad it was.

Sucking in a deep breath, saliva filled my mouth immediately, and a rush of panic came with it.

I couldn’t remember the last time I threw up, but given how sick I suddenly felt, I knew it was coming.

Keeled over behind the barn, I couldn’t help as the vomit forced its way out. As ungracefully as possible, I had no choice but to let it run its course, waiting for that urge to pass.

---