Page 59 of Arranged to Marry the Bratva

“Everything is fine,” he says, his expression unreadable. “Nothing for you to worry about.”

I watch appreciatively as he dresses, desire stirring despite our recent activities. Nikolai smirks at me over his shoulder, eyes glinting with promise. "Behave yourself today, Milaya. I will make it worth your while tonight."

Heat floods my cheeks as I throw a pillow at his head. Nikolai dodges it easily, laughing. "Get out of here before you're late for work." I huff, trying and failing to hide my smile.

***

I get dressed and freshen up, anticipation building as I think of shopping for the nursery. It will make this whole situation feel more real, that we're actually having a baby together.

When I step outside, I'm surprised to find my car waiting in the driveway, along with an imposing black SUV and a security convoy. Fedor leans against the SUV, arms crossed over his chest. He straightens when he sees me, offering a charming smile.

"Sister, it's good to see you." Fedor pulls me into a hug.

"I'm glad Nikolai asked you to accompany me today," I say as we separate, shooting a pointed look at the security convoy. "But was all of this really necessary?"

Fedor shrugs, unrepentant. "You know how Nikolai is. He worries too much and takes no chances when it comes to your safety." His expression softens. "Especially now that you're carrying his child. He would move heaven and earth to keep you both out of harm's way."

"I know." A rush of warmth fills me at the thought of Nikolai's love and devotion. I shake my head fondly. "He's utterly impossible."

“Utterly impossible to deal with,” he jokes, giving me a wink.

I laugh, nudging his shoulder. "Come on, let's go. The sooner we get started, the sooner we can be back, and Nikolai will stop fretting."

"As the lady wishes." Fedor opens the passenger door of the SUV with a flourish.

I roll my eyes but slide into the seat, Fedor settling in beside me. The convoy starts their engines, ready to escort us to our destination. This is sure to be an interesting shopping trip.

***

We arrive at the multi-level mom and baby store and Fedor helps me out of the SUV. I pause for a moment, struck by a strange prickling at the back of my neck. I glance around, but the street is bustling with activity, nothing out of the ordinary. Shaking off the odd feeling, I loop my arm through Fedor's, and we head inside.

The store is filled with adorable outfits in pinks and blues, stuffed animals of every shape and size. I'm instantly charmed, running my fingers over the soft fabric of a pale yellow onesie.

Fedor watches with an indulgent smile. "I take it we'll be here for a while."

"Hush, you. This is important business." I retort, picking up a fluffy bunny. "What do you think, pink or blue?"

"I think either would be perfect," Fedor says diplomatically.

I laugh, setting the bunny back on the shelf. "You're no help at all."

We continue browsing, debating the merits of rattles versus plush toys. The uneasy feeling from earlier fades in the face of such joyful moments. Nikolai and I have been through so much; it's a miracle we've been gifted this chance at happiness. A fierce surge of love for my child and my husband washes over me. I know then, with sudden certainty, that I have to tell Nikolai how I feel.

I turn to Fedor, eyes shining. "I'm in love with your brother." The words spill from my lips, breathless and true. "So very much in love."

Fedor smiles, slow and sweet. "I'm glad you've finally admitted it. Nikolai has loved you from the moment he first saw you. You both deserve this joy."

“He… he has?” I ask curiously.

“Has he never told you?” Fedor looks confused.

I blush, the color probably bright red on my face. “None of us have ever admitted it to one another. Maybe tonight, I shall tell him how you feel.”

Fedor whistles and shakes his head with a huge grin plastered across his face. “I say, it’s about time one of you should!”

My heart flutters as warmth spreads through my body. I gently caress a small, delicate muslin cloth, sharing in the wonder of love and new beginnings. Today has been a day of revelations in more ways than one. The future is bright and filled with promise, and I can't wait to tell Nikolai I love him.

***

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