Page 25 of Tyrant

“Honey, my father is in a bad state, he might not even know you’re there.”

We left our bedroom and walked to the east wing which was my father’s domain. I held on to Tabitha’s hand because I knew she must be nervous. I wanted to reassure her that she’d be fine. When we were outside the door, I leaned over and kissed her.

“It’s okay, there’s nothing to fear.”

“Okay.”

I opened the door and was greeted by Dr. Ralsky who looked downcast.

“Mr. Mikhailov it might be too late.”

I passed him and went into the large room with king sized bed. A forlorn figure was lying on top of the covers, his eyes closed and barely breathing. He was hooked up to a vital signs machine which gave off a beeping noise.

Tabitha and I moved closer to the bed. I hadn’t let go of her hand and we both stood by my father’s bedside. As I reached out and touched him, he didn’t even stir as he labored to breathe. Tabitha pulled her hand out of mine and encourage me to tend to my father.

“I’ll stay right here,” she assured me. “Talk to him.”

I picked up his frail hand and held between both of mine. “Father, if you can hear me, it’s Zakhar. I’m sorry I couldn’t come sooner but I was getting married like you wanted. She’s right here with me and I am very happy.”

“Zaaaa…” a faint voice whispered. “Is … that … you?” He paused between words to catch his breath.

“Yes father.”

“Come … closer.” His words were slow and controlled.

I leaned down my ear to his mouth. His breath fanned my ear as he spoke. “I … am … proud … of …y…”

His breath stopped and it was like the world around me stopped with it. The machine started droning, indicating that his vitals were non-existent. I stood up straight and cleared my throat before calling Dr. Ralsky over. Tabitha gripped my hand and leaned her head on my shoulder as if she knew what had just happened.

The doctor performed final declaration and made it official. My father was dead, and he didn’t even get to meet my wife. At least he held on long enough for me to arrive home.

* * *

Although the arrangements had already been made, the funeral was held a few days later to accommodate the arrival of family members.

The day of the funeral was sunny and bright, yet quite a solemn occasion. Many people gave tribute to the patriarch of the Mikhailov’s and showed love and support to us. I was thankful.

Kiev had made friend with Tabitha from the first day as she tried to comfort those around her. I didn’t mind her offering words of kindness, but Kiev’s closeness to her was making me uncomfortable. He’d basically abandoned his own wife and was clinging to mine for support.

I saw the way he was with Tabitha, the way he leaned into her when he spoke, and looks he gave her when he thought no one was looking. Da fuck!

Not wanting to make a scene with our family around I waited until after the repass and all the guests were gone. I took a bottle of whiskey in the den and invited Kiev to join me.

I poured the drinks and offered him one. “Take the edge off. I know you miss father as much as I do.”

“Thanks Zakhar. You got married before he died, otherwise you would have felt guilty not fulfilling his wish for you.”

“What about you, are you and Bethany getting on?”

He shrugged. “It’s not that she isn’t great, it’s just that we aren’t clicking.”

I downed my drink in one shot and turned to him. “I see you clicking with my wife.”

“You’re a lucky man. Tabitha is different, she’s…”

I advanced, coming to stand within inches from his face. “I know you’re my brother, but if you even breathe near her, I will crush you like a bug.”

He held up both hands in defensive mode. “Woah, no need to get all offensive, I’m not after your wife.”

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