Page 43 of Twins for the Bratva

Konstantin gave me a sideways glance before getting out. He opened my door and waited for me to get out before he replied. “I think they’re getting back tomorrow or the day after. Why do you want to know?”

“It’s just been a while since I’ve seen them, is all,” I replied. I felt drained from the day's activities and was glad to be able to go to bed.

Chapter 20 - Konstantin

I was happy to greet my brother at the door to our offices. Piotr and Alyssa had been abroad for a while now. It was great to have them back. Even though Leon and I coped with the daily running of the business, I missed them around the house.

They were perfect together. I hoped Dahlia and I would be as happy as they were one day. After exchanging hugs, we moved to the lounge-type kitchen. Mila had ensured there were snacks and something to drink.

Sitting down, we quickly ran through the business dealings and events. Once the business was concluded, we could relax.

“How have things been with Dahlia?” Piotr asked, smiling.

“It’s been okay. She is good, as far as I can tell. I just have to keep fighting this urge to wrap her in bubble wrap and place her in a bulletproof room.” I replied, grinning.

They burst out laughing. “Wanting to keep her safe is good,” Alyssa said. “But be careful of pushing her away.”

“Yes, I know. Thank you.” I replied. “I guess you are aching to get home?”

“We are, in fact,” Piotr replied, rising. “See you there?”

“Yes, I just want to wrap up some things. See you in a bit.”

I watched as they left before heading to my office. Once I had made some calls and checked my emails, I also headed home. Arriving home, I found Mila and Dahlia in the kitchen. They appeared to be in a serious conversation. I wondered what they could be discussing.

Entering the kitchen, I kissed Dahlia on the cheek. “Hi there,” I said. The two women smiled at me as they each picked up a bowl.

“Supper is almost ready,” Mila responded as they walked to the living room.

Following them, I found the entire family gathered. “Wow,” I said. “What a surprise. A family dinner?’

“Yes, we thought it would be nice to have a meal together with everyone home,” Leon said, shaking my hand.

“Indeed, it is,” I replied, taking my place. It felt different, with the table practically filled right around now. There was only one place still open. That would be for Mila’s partner if she ever found one.

All seemed peaceful at first. Everyone dished up, and we listened to Piotr and Alyssa tell us more about their trips. There was a lot of laughter and teasing, even during dinner. The mood was light and calming.

We were basically done when Dahlia drew everyone’s attention. “Piotr, as you know, I have great analyzing and data-gathering skills. As I have proven to you all.” She glanced around at us as she continued. “I know I can be useful in the organization if given a chance. I would appreciate it if you could consider letting me join. I want to earn my own income.”

Anger filled me as I listened to her talk. Taking a deep breath, I clutched the sides of my chair to stay seated. I knew I had to stay calm. As I felt my temper starting to settle, Piotr replied.

“I will admit that your skills can be of great help. What you offer is unique and has helped us before. But it is not adecision I can make alone. You understand that, don’t you?” We all need to be in agreement.”

It looked like Dahlia was about to say something when Piotr raised his hand, silencing her. “Once we have talked about it, we will inform you of our decision,” he added calmly.

Dahlia nodded and smiled at him. Every bite after that tasted like sand and mudpie. I couldn’t get another bite in. I felt tense and slightly sick in my stomach. Once everyone was done, we started clearing the table.

After taking away the last dishes, I leaned closer to Dahlia and whispered. “Let’s talk.” Instead of going back to the table, I walked past the stairs to the passage below. I heard Dahlia excusing herself and knew she was coming. Stopping where I knew no one could hear us, I turned and waited.

“Why didn’t you tell me you wanted to join the org?” I asked, anger dripping from my voice.

“Because I knew you would say no. This way, everyone knows how I feel.” She retorted.

Clenching my fists, I took a deep breath before speaking. “Dahlia, sugar, I only want to keep you safe.”

Dahlia placed her hand tenderly on my chest as she continued. “I don’t want to rely on anyone, baby. I know you can provide. But I want to be financially independent. I want to be with you, and this is the solution.”

Taken aback by her words, I stood for a moment as her words played on repeat in my head. I felt a strange feeling of satisfaction replacing my anger. She wanted to be with me is all I could think of.

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