Page 27 of Arranged to Marry the Bratva

Beside me, Anoushka stiffens, taken aback by how Dima speaks.

“Dima,” I let out his name in a warning, slightly shaking my head. Dima frowns but steps back. “She is my wife. She’s one of us now. While I understand that the business matters to you, to us, I’ll have you remember that Orlov’s come above all else.”

Dima holds my gaze, looking for any sign of the brother he remembered who would never choose a woman over the business. Finally, he shrugs, backing away. "Have it your way—for now. But remember, she’s also a Zolotov.” His eyes flicker over to Anoushka’s, who fearfully diverts her own. “And the Zolotovs are bound to betray you. If not now, then… " He leaves the threat hanging.

“I think we’re done here,” I growl. “My decision is final.”

With that, I take my wife right out of Dima’s office and back to the safety of our home, where she belongs.

Chapter 12 - Anoushka

The sunlight streams through the curtains, casting soft golden patterns on the floor as I stretch beneath the warmth of my sheets. It's a Sunday, and I have the day off. Considering that Nikolai informed me he would be heading out early for some meetings, I think I’ll spend the day catching up on my reading.

I head downstairs, the smell of freshly brewed coffee greeting me. I pour myself a cup and take a seat in the kitchen, sipping slowly as I read the paper. But, I find myself unable to concentrate. My thoughts drift toward Nikolai. Then, to that day, in his office. I blush as the memory floods back at how gentle he was, how considerate. I can't quite put my finger on it, but he's different from what I expected. A part of me wonders why I’m fighting this attraction all the time, why I’m so afraid to bid my carefully laid plans goodbye.

Have I fallen so in love with my preconceived notions that I’d deny myself a marriage that might bring me joy?

"Surprise!" The sudden shriek startles me, causing me to spill my coffee. I look up, heart pounding, only to see Sofia and Natalia standing in the doorway. Natalia grins widely, her full cheeks squishing her eyes together so cutely, while Sofia tries to give me what I think she believes is a smile, but it comes across as a pained expression.

Natalia walks over and gives me a hug from over my shoulders, leaning over the chair. "We thought we'd come by and spend some time together. You know, sisterly bonding."

I hesitate, suspicion prickling at the back of my mind. Why are they here? What do they want from me? But then I remember Nikolai's words, how he wants me to try fulfilling marital duties, and getting along with his family is one of them, isn’t it? This is something I can try to do, to test the waters without his knowing. Maybe this is an opportunity to build bridges with Sofia or at least find out more about her feelings toward me.

"Sure," I reply cautiously, wiping up the spilled coffee with a napkin. "What did you two have in mind?"

Natalia claps her hands excitedly. "Oh, we have so much planned for today! You're going to love it!" Her enthusiasm is infectious, but I can't help feeling a little unnerved by Sofia's watchful gaze.

"Alright," I concede, trying to sound upbeat. "I'm game."

"Great!" Natalia beams, her eyes bright with excitement. "Let's get going then. Time's a-wasting!"

***

As we climb into Sofia’s sleek black car, I can feel my skepticism gradually giving way to curiosity when Natalia orders the driver to put on some pop songs. She begins to sing along, and I can’t help but join in. Maybe this day won't be as bad as I initially thought. After all, from what I've seen so far, Natalia seems genuinely enthusiastic about spending time with me.

"Where are we going first?" I ask, trying to keep my voice light and casual.

"Shopping!" Natalia exclaims, her eyes twinkling. "We know you've been cooped up in that house for a while now, so we figured you could use some retail therapy."

Sofia nods in agreement, adding softly, "There's an amazing boutique not too far from here that carries the latest designer brands. Natalia thought you'd love it."

The fact that she said Natalia thought I’d love it isn’t lost on me. She could have said we.

I'm not much of a fashion enthusiast, but the prospect of getting out of the house and doing something normal for a change is undeniably appealing.

"Alright," I say, stepping out of the car when we pull up at the boutique. "Let's see what this place has to offer."

The store is a wonderland of luxurious fabrics and vibrant colors, its shelves lined with everything from elegant dresses to chic accessories. Natalia takes the lead, guiding me through the maze of clothing racks with infectious enthusiasm.

"Look at this dress, Anoushka!" she squeals, holding up a stunning red number that practically screams 'Bratva princess,' if that is a thing. It’s silk, thin straps, cowl neck, plunging at the top a little too deep and so damn figure hugging. "It would look amazing on you!"

I can't help but laugh at her excitement. "Really? You think so?"

"Absolutely!" She insists, thrusting the garment into my arms. "Try it on! I'll find more stuff for you to wear."

As I slip into the fitting room, I can't deny that there's something thrilling about being pampered like this. For the first time since marrying Nikolai, I feel like a regular young woman, the girl I used to be before we got married.

The afternoon passes in a blur of laughter and shared opinions as Natalia and I try on more outfits than I can count. Sofia barely involves herself, except for when she points at a necklace and tells me it would go well with the dress I’m buying.

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