Page 48 of Innocently Imprisoned By the Bratva

"Your hands are like magic," I tease, wincing slightly as she dabs at a cut on my arm. "Maybe you should become a nurse instead of studying business operations."

"Who says I can't do both?" she retorts with a smirk, playfully swatting my uninjured arm. "Besides, someone has to patch you up after your reckless heroics."

"Reckless heroics? Is that what we're calling it now?" I chuckle, shaking my head. "A few months ago, you would've called it 'Bratva nonsense’."

"Maybe," she concedes, rolling her eyes. "But that was before I knew it could save our lives."

As Pippa works her healing magic, I find myself lost in thought, wondering who our mysterious savior could be. But for now, all that matters is that we're safe, together, and ready to face whatever comes our way.

Chapter 18 - Pippa

The black dress taunts me from where it lies, draped across my bed. A sleek and form-fitting shift dress—worlds away from my usual flowing skirts and soft cardigans. I fiddle anxiously with the zipper at the back, imagining how constricting the fabric will feel as it clings to my curves.

A knock at the door startles me from my worrying. Before I can respond, Anoushka breezes into the room, her signature smirk dancing on her lips.

"Well, don't you look like a frightened little mouse staring down that big, bad dress?"

I roll my eyes dramatically. "Oh hush, you. I'll have you know this mouse has faced scarier things than a silly cocktail party."

"Mm-hmm, I'm sure." Her grin widens as she snatches the dress from the bed. "Now quit your whining and let me help you into this thing."

Gently, she guides me into the dress, smoothing it over my hips and securing the zipper. I suck in a breath as I catch my reflection in the mirror. The inky fabric drapes softly over my body, accentuating the most important curves. Despite my reservations, I feel beautiful.

I turn and pull Anoushka into a fierce hug. "Thank you," I whisper into her hair. "For always knowing exactly what I need."

She returns the embrace, giving me an affectionate squeeze. "You can call me anytime for help. That's what sisters are for."

“But truly, Anoushka. I can’t believe you managed to pick out something so exquisite,” I say, looking at my reflection in the mirror.

“Hush, sit now.” Anoushka leads me to a chair. She applies some bare, dewy make-up, which makes my skin glow.

“God!” Anoushka moans, dabbing some red lipstick on my lips. “I would kill to be nineteen again.”

“Would you?” I ask skeptically.

“If I had your skin? Hell yeah! You’re gorgeous, the epitome of youth, my dear.”

She then proceeds to tie my hair in a chignon, leaving some loose strands of hair to frame my face.

“Wow,” I gasp out loud when she steps away, unable to imagine that this reflection staring back at me is mine.

Anoushka pulls back and regards me with a thoughtful look. "You know, I think I have just the thing to complete this look."

She hurries over to the dresser and retrieves a black velvet box. Nestled inside is a stunning diamond necklace that glitters even in the low light.

"Oh my, I couldn't possibly-" I start to protest, but she quiets me with a wave of her hand.

"Nonsense. Every proper lady needs her diamonds. I picked it out especially for you from my personal collection.”

With care, Anoushka fastens the necklace around my neck. The cool metal and stones rest delicately on my décolletage. I brush my fingers over the gems, marveling at their extravagance.

"There," Anoushka proclaims. "Now you're ready to slay that party and make all the men weak in the knees."

I blush furiously at the thought. There's only one man I care to impress tonight.

After profusely thanking Anoushka again, I make my way downstairs to the waiting car. Anoushka tells me she’ll join shortly. Lev’s been calling, impatiently asking where I am. Butterflies swirl violently in my stomach during the drive over. I take deep breaths, trying to calm my nerves.

Too soon, we pull up to the grand hotel hosting the event. I step out on shaky legs, clutching my purse like a lifeline. As I enter the glittering ballroom, I immediately spot Lev across the crowded space. Our eyes lock and the breath hitches in my throat. He looks devastatingly handsome in his tuxedo, hair pulled back to reveal the sharp lines of his jaw.

---