Page 33 of Innocently Imprisoned By the Bratva

The following day, I take Pippa to Boris's office, watching her fidget nervously next to me during the elevator ride up. I can tell she's feeling out of her element, but I have complete faith in her abilities.

"Relax," I whisper, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Just remember, you embarrass yourself, you embarrass me.”

She looks up in shock, and I burst out into a fit of laughter.

“You’re not helping,” she smacks my shoulder.

“Told you my middle name was trouble.”

She turns on her heels, ready to walk out. “Maybe this was a mistake,” she mutters, going past me. I reach out, and grab her hand. She turns back with a jerk, her nervousness seeping into me.

“You’ll be fine,” I say, rather fiercely. “I’m many things, but stupid isn’t one of them. Trust me, Pippa. You can do this.”

"Easy for you to say," she mutters, shooting me a sideways glare, but then she turns to face forward again. "You've been doing this your whole life."

"True, but I've never been as smart as you," I retort playfully. "If anyone can impress Boris, it's you."

"Thanks, Lev," she murmurs, offering a small smile. We continue walking.

As the elevator doors open, we step into the spacious office. Boris looks up from his desk, a curious expression on his face.

"Lev, what are you doing here? And who is this?" he asks, eyeing Pippa with interest.

"Meet Pippa Anderson," I announce, giving her a gentle nudge forward. Boris’s eyes widen just a little at the realization of who she is. But he’s far too professional to let his thoughts be known right now.

I continue telling him the truth. "She's too brilliant to spend her days cleaning houses. I'm here to make sure she gets a shot at something more fitting of her talents."

"Is that so?" Boris raises an eyebrow, studying Pippa intently. "Well, let's see what she can do. Put her under my secretary’s wing, and by the end of the day, we’ll know."

***

"Alright, let's get you settled," I say to Pippa as we walk through the bustling office. The sound of phones ringing and fingers typing fills the air. "Boris's secretary will be your mentor for now."

"Really? That's great," Pippa says, her eyes flickering with excitement and nerves.

We approach a desk where Boris's secretary, Tasha, sits. She looks up at us with a warm smile. Her red lipstick contrasts sharply against her pale skin, and her eyes are sharp and intelligent.

"Ah, Lev, what can I do for you?" she asks, eyeing Pippa curiously.

"Meet Pippa Anderson, our new intern. I was hoping you could show her the ropes," I explain, giving Pippa an encouraging pat on the back.

"Of course! It's a pleasure to meet you, Pippa. I'll take good care of you," Tasha assures her, extending a hand for Pippa to shake.

"Thank you," Pippa replies, grasping Tasha's hand firmly. "I'm looking forward to learning from you."

"Great!" Tasha exclaims. "Let's get started then. I'll introduce you to everyone on the team and show you around the office."

"Thanks, Tasha," I interject, my attention already shifting. "Make sure Pippa feels comfortable. I have to head off to a meeting now."

"Will do, Boss," Tasha says with a knowing wink.

"Good luck, Pip," I tease before leaving them behind. I can tell she's in good hands, and it's time for me to focus on more pressing matters.

***

As I enter the private conference room, my brothers are already seated at the table, deep in discussion. Damien taps away at his laptop while Boris leans back in his chair, a pensive expression on his face.

"Lev, you're late," Boris chastises me with a disapproving frown.

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