Page 22 of Captured By the Bratva

“Right? Anyway, enough about me. What about you? Are you seeing anyone?”

I pause, the question catching me off guard. “Uh, no. Not really.”

“Not really?” Sarah presses, a teasing note in her voice. “What about that guy from the party. Nick, wasn’t it? He was totally into you.”

I bite my lip, remembering Nick’s earnest attempts to get my attention. A few weeks ago, I might have been interested, but now… things feel different. “Yeah, Nick. He’s nice, but I’m not really interested anymore.”

“Oh, come on, Vi. He’s cute and totally into you. What changed?” Sarah asks, her curiosity piqued.

I sigh, trying to find the words. “I don’t know. I guess I just have a lot on my plate right now.”

Sarah is silent for a moment, then her tone turns sympathetic. “Is it because of your dad? I know things have been rough, but you said yourself distractions can be a good thing.”

“Yeah, that’s part of it,” I admit, grateful for her understanding.

“Well, if you ever want to talk about it, you know I’m here for you,” Sarah says gently.

“Thanks, Sarah. I appreciate it,” I reply, feeling a lump form in my throat. Her support means the world to me.

“Hey, how about we blow off some steam? There’s another party this weekend, and Nick will be there. It could be fun,” Sarah suggests brightly.

I shake my head, even though she can’t see me. “I think I’ll pass. I’ve got a lot to handle right now.”

“Are you sure? It could be just what you need,” Sarah persists.

“I’m sure,” I say firmly. “Thanks for thinking of me.”

“Anytime, Vi. Just remember to take care of yourself, okay?”

“I will. Thanks, Sarah,” I say, feeling a warm sense of gratitude.

“I still think you need to stay busy, you know? Get out there, get back to normal. You could always stop by for a bit, go home early?”

Even if I wanted to, there’s no way I could get past Kirill’s men. “Not this time,” I say softly.

“t’s going to be at Jamie’s place. You know how he always goes all out. There’s going to be a pool, a DJ, the works. You sure you don’t want to come? It could be fun.”

I smile at her persistence, even though I know I can’t go. “It does sound fun, but I think I’ll have to take a rain check. I just have so much going on right now.”

Sarah sighs dramatically. “Alright, but you’re missing out. Jamie’s parties are legendary. Nick… well, let’s just say he’ll be disappointed not to see you there.”

I laugh softly, appreciating her attempt to lighten my mood. “I’m sure he’ll manage.”

“Okay, but how about we grab lunch later this week? I miss our hangouts. Maybe Thursday?”

“Thursday sounds good,” I say, feeling a bit of relief at the thought of something normal. Maybe I can convince Kirill for an afternoon out. “Let’s do that.”

“Great! We can go to that new Italian place that just opened. I’ve been dying to try their pasta.”

“It’s a date,” I agree, genuinely looking forward to it.

Sarah hesitates, then adds, “I’m sorry if I’m being too talkative. I know you’ve got a lot on your plate.”

“No, it’s fine,” I assure her quickly. “Honestly, it’s nice to have a bit of normalcy. It’s been a rough few days.”

“I can imagine,” Sarah says sympathetically. “If you ever need to talk or just need a distraction, I’m here.”

“Thanks, Sarah. That means a lot,” I say, the sincerity in my voice reflecting my appreciation.

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