Page 49 of Innocently Imprisoned By the Bratva

Tonight will certainly be interesting.

Lev wastes no time making his way over to me, his intense gaze never leaving mine. I feel pinned in place, unable to look away or even breathe properly.

"Miss Anderson," he says smoothly as he stops in front of me. "You look ravishing this evening."

Miss Anderson? I frown and then notice the dozens of people milling around, each waiting to get a word in with a Zolotov brother.

His eyes trail appreciatively over my body, making me hyper aware of the necklace resting above my cleavage. I resist the urge to fidget nervously under his scrutiny.

"T-thank you, Mr. Zolotov," I manage to stammer out. "You look very handsome yourself."

A corner of his mouth quirks up in a half-smile.

Something fluttered in my chest at the sight of that smile. If only I could kiss him now. But I know such thoughts are foolish, especially here in public.

Before he can say anything further, we're interrupted by the approach of an older gentleman. Lev's entire demeanor shifts seamlessly into cool professionalism as he greets the man.

I stand awkwardly off to the side, unsure what to do. This is Lev's world, not mine. I'm merely a guest. For now, I'll have to be content playing the role of adoring outsider.

But later… later we'll have a chance to be alone. And I can't wait to see what that brings.

I try to blend into the background as Lev converses with the older gentleman, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention. These fancy events make me nervous, though I'd never admit that out loud. I'm a simple college girl, not meant for glitzy parties and schmoozing.

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice a small group of men watching me curiously. They have a family resemblance to Lev, with the same inky dark hair and piercing eyes. Lev notices me looking and discretely murmurs, "My cousins. Ivan, Mikhail, and Sergei. Ivan is the most powerful Bratva Boss in America."

I give a tiny nod, feeling my cheeks heat. I’m guessing they don’t know about Lev and me, and I pray it remains that way.

“I—I’m going to go get a drink,” I tell Lev and walk away alone. I simply don’t want the extra attention from the powerful mob.

As I walk away, I feel like I have eyes blazing into me. I turn around and see Lev, watching me every step of the way. I blush and look straight ahead, only to stop at the bar and order myself a lemonade.

I take a steadying breath and turn back to the party. Across the room, Lev is watching me, an unreadable expression on his face. I offer a small smile.

"There you are, Pippa," comes a familiar voice. I turn to see Boris approaching.

"Mr. Zolotov," I say politely.

He waves a hand. "Please, call me Boris. I wanted to see if you're enjoying yourself tonight."

"Oh, it's wonderful," I reply brightly. "I don't usually attend events like this."

Boris nods. "An intern's salary doesn't allow for much frivolity, I imagine."

I laugh softly. "Too true. But I'm happy with my role. It's a great learning experience." I go on to confidently explain some of my daily tasks, wanting to showcase my competence.

Boris listens attentively, seemingly impressed. "You have a good head on your shoulders, Pippa. I'm glad to have you in the office."

"Thank you, Sir—Boris," I correct myself, beaming.

As Boris moves on, I feel a swell of pride in holding my own. Maybe I do belong in this glamorous world after all.

I turn back to the bar to adjust my necklace when I feel a soft jab on my waist. I turn with a gasp to find Lev standing there, looking down at me.

“What are you drinking?” he winks in my direction.

“Lemonade,” I tell him.

“How about some wine?”

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