Page 28 of Paid for By the Bratva

“So, how was this club you went to last night?” Fedor asks, his arms crossed together on the table in front of him.

“It was fun,” I smile at him.

“Yeah? Hot girls?”

“Fedor!” Dima roars, chucking a slice of apple at him from across the table.

Artyom and Natalia burst out into laughter.

I, too, laugh. Slowly, I can’t help but notice the sparks flying between the siblings—their contrasting personalities creating a fascinating dynamic. Artyom's loud guffaws punctuate Fedor's witty remarks, while Natalia is sweet and gentle, and Sofia’s cleverness knows no bounds. I begin to clearly enjoy the banter between the men and women, having never had sisters before.

"Tell us, Lara," Natalia begins, leaning forward with genuine interest in her eyes, "what are your thoughts on the gardens here? I've always felt they could use some improvement."

I blink in surprise, not expecting to be asked for my opinion. "Well, um, I think the gardens are beautiful, but they do seem a bit…neglected. Perhaps adding more colorful flowers and creating a space for people to sit and enjoy the view would enhance their charm," I suggest, feeling a warmth spread through me as I realize they genuinely want to hear my thoughts.

"Excellent idea!" Fedor chimes in, his enthusiasm contagious. "We should definitely consider that. What about the house itself? Do you have any ideas for changes or improvements?"

My mind races, filled with possibilities and excitement. "Maybe updating some of the rooms, bringing in more natural light and antique touches. It would make the house feel more welcoming and inviting," I say, my voice growing stronger with each suggestion.

"Great suggestions, Lara," Sofia adds, nodding in agreement. "You should just go ahead and do it, you know? Our brother would let the place rot if you don’t intervene.”

“That,” Dima tilts his head, raising a fork at Sofia. “Might actually be true,” he bows in surrender.

I chuckle at the unexpected end. “You really must, Lara,” Dima insists. “My siblings are wise at times.”

I nod and remain engrossed in speaking with them. They seem genuinely interested in getting to know me, which only makes me more determined to win them over.

As we continue discussing plans for the house and gardens, I can't help but steal glances at Dima. He listens intently, occasionally interjecting with his own thoughts and ideas. The confidence in his voice sends shivers down my spine, reminding me of last night's events—the way he held me close on the dance floor, the intensity of his touch when he put me to bed.

And I realize I’m hoping for more moments like the ones we’ve shared so far.

***

After the siblings leave, I settle into one of the gondolas outside with a book. I'm caught off-guard by the sound of my name falling softly from Dima's lips.

"Can I speak with you for a moment, Lara?" he asks, coming up the stairs.

"Of course," I reply, my heart skipping a beat at the unexpected attention.

"Your ideas about the house and gardens were lovely," he begins, leaning against the wall with his hands in his pockets. "I couldn't help but notice how excited you were while discussing them."

A warm blush spreads across my cheeks as I look down, feeling both flattered and vulnerable under his gaze. "Thank you," I mumble, fiddling with the hem of my dress. "It's just…I've always been passionate about design and creating beautiful spaces. I studied interior decor back in university and thought I’d turn it into a career. But my brothers, they never really took my ideas seriously. I guess being the youngest has its drawbacks."

Dima tilts his head, considering my words before responding. "That's unfortunate. Your talent shouldn't be dismissed. In fact, I'd love to hear more about your thoughts on the house. Maybe we could work together on some of those changes you mentioned?"

I blink in surprise, my pulse quickening at the realization that he’s trying to support my career. "Are you sure? I don't want to impose…"

"Your ideas are valuable, Lara," he insists, his eyes never leaving mine. "You deserve to be heard, and I'm eager to listen, especially considering how we all deduced I have zero designskills and what was it my sister said again? Ah, yes. I’d let the place rot."

"Thank you," I whisper, still in disbelief thatthisjust happened. "That means more to me than you can imagine."

“As I said,” he says, still staring at me intently. “It’s your house, and what better place to practice the start of a career than a space you call your own?”

Chapter 10 - Dima

The heavy glass door to Nikolai's office swings open, revealing a bustling lobby. The guards nod as we pass; no need for IDs.

I lead Lara into an empty elevator, her slender hand in mine. Her fingers tremble slightly, and a faint sigh escapes her as the doors close.

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