Page 14 of Arranged Mafia Marriage

One morning, I find her in the kitchen, staring out the window with a wistful expression. She doesn’t notice me at first, lost in her thoughts.

“Good morning, darling,” I say, moving to pour myself a cup of coffee.

She startles, spinning around. “Oh. Good morning. I didn’t hear you come in.”

I gesture to the coffee pot. “Would you like some?”

She nods, and I pour her a cup, sliding it across the counter. She wraps her hands around it, inhaling deeply. “Thank you.”

I slouch against the counter, the smooth marble cooling my palm as I study her. “How are you settling in?”

Felicity shifts uncomfortably. “It’s been difficult for me, I’m not going to lie. I keep thinking about how crazy all this is and how I’m never going to get my old life back. It’s freaking me out a little bit.”

I purse my lips, but I understand. “Is there anything you need? Anything that would make you more comfortable?”

She hesitates, then says, “Actually, I was wondering if I could go out today. Maybe explore the neighborhood a bit?”

I frown. “That’s not advisable. It’s not safe for you to be out alone, and I can’t come with you. That would only draw more attention to you.”

“I won’t be alone,” she chirps. “Viktor can come with me.”

I shake my head. “Viktor has other duties. He can’t be your personal bodyguard.”

Her face tightens with frustration. “So, I’m just supposed to stay cooped up in here all the time?”

“For now, yes,” I say firmly. “Until we’re certain the threat has passed.”

She sets down her coffee cup with more force than necessary. “And when will that be? A week? A month? A year? It’s only been a few days and I’m already losing my mind.”

I narrow my eyes. “You’ll be here for as long as it takes to ensure your safety.”

“This isn’t a life. It’s a prison sentence, and I didn’t sign up for it.”

Her words sting more than I care to admit. “It’s necessary,” I grumble. “I’m trying to protect you.”

“By keeping me locked up like some fairy tale princess in a tower?” She laughs bitterly. “I didn’t agree to this.”

I step closer, keeping my tone firm. “You agreed to marry me. That comes with certain expectations and responsibilities.”

“I agreed to marry you to save my life.” She rolls her eyes. “Not to become your prisoner.”

We glare at each other, the tension thick between us. Elena chooses that moment to bustle into the kitchen, humming softly. She pauses, sensing the atmosphere. “Is everything all right?” she asks, looking between us.

I force a neutral expression. “Everything’s fine, Elena. Felicity and I were just discussing her schedule for the day.”

Felicity opens her mouth, likely to argue, but I give her a warning look. She presses her lips together, clearly fuming.

The housekeeper looks unconvinced but doesn’t press the issue. “I was thinking of making blini for breakfast. How does that sound?”

“That sounds lovely, Elena, but I’m not very hungry,” says Felicity through gritted teeth. “I’ll be in my room.”

She stalks out of the kitchen, leaving me to deal with Elena’s concerned look.

“Mr. Pimaslov,” she says, her tone gentle but reproachful, “Perhaps the young lady needs some time to adjust. A littlefreedom might do her good, and some fresh air. It’s a bit stuffy in here, actually.”

I sigh, running a hand through my sweaty hair. “It’s not that simple. Her safety is paramount.”

Elena nods, but her expression remains skeptical. “Of course, but there must be a way to balance safety and happiness. Being indoors all day is terrible for your health.”

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