Page 4 of Paid for By the Bratva

Chapter 2 - Dima

Nikolai's eyes shine with excitement as he leans forward in his chair, hands gripping the armrests.

"Think about it, Dima," he says, animated and passionate. "Investing in Abram’s new projects could be a game-changer for us. There's so much potential for growth, and we'd be foolish to pass up this opportunity. The Zolotovs are only going to get stronger with Abram and his siblings here in Philadelphia."

My gaze remains fixed on my older brother's face, studying his every expression as I weigh the proposition. It's not that I don't trust Nikolai; I'd do anything to protect him and our siblings. But something about the Zolotovs sets off alarm bells in my head.

Nikolai might have married Boris Zolotovs sister Anoushka, and while I’ve grown fond of Anoushka and the wonderful person she is, that doesn’t give me blind faith in every Zolotov. For years, we’ve been enemies. That can’t just be erased through one marriage.

"Potential, yes." I sigh, rubbing my temples. "But what do we really know about the rest of the Zolotovs? Abram and his siblings have only just arrived in Philadelphia. We don’t know why they’re asking you for investment. They’ve got powerful enough connections, including their cousins Ivan and Boris, from whom to raise funds. There's risk involved, Nikolai. We can't jump into bed with them without understanding their motives and connections."

Nikolai rolls his eyes, clearly frustrated. "You're always so paranoid, Dima. Sometimes, you need to take risks to get ahead in life."

"Paranoia has kept us alive and out of trouble so far," I counter, holding my ground. My mind races with questions and concerns, struggling to reconcile my instincts with the desire to see my family thrive.

"Fine," Nikolai concedes, his tone sharp. "What do you want to do then?"

"Before we make any decisions, I need to gather more information," I say firmly. "I suggest you give me some more time to keep a closer eye on the Zolotovs and everyone involved in this project."

"Always the cautious one," Nikolai mutters under his breath, but he gives me a begrudging nod of agreement.

"Better safe than sorry." I force a tight-lipped smile.

***

Surrounded by the dim glow of my office lamp, I shuffle through files on every member of the Zolotov syndicate. I meticulously organize every detail, leaving no stone unturned in case my spies make an error or two. They’re only human, and human beings can be careless.

"Another late night, Dima?" My brother Fedor leans against my doorframe with a playful grin. "You're beginning to resemble a vampire."

"Someone has to keep a watchful eye on our new acquaintances," I retort, not lifting my gaze from the papers before me. "Besides, I've always appreciated the night's tranquility."

"Suit yourself. I’m heading out on a date," he chuckles before disappearing down the hallway.

As much as I'd like to share in their excitement over Abram’s project, I can't shake the uneasiness that gnaws at me. I need answers, clarity. To ensure nothing threatens my family.

There are files on everyone. Ivan and his wife Audrey, Sergei and Amelia, Mikhail and Caterina, Vanya, Boris and Robin, Damien and Genevieve, Lev and Pippa, and Anoushka.

None of their routines seem out of the ordinary. The women are busy with the children and non-profit work, and the men with business as usual. Apart from Sergei visiting some seedy mafia members from the Italian units, there’s not much to pry into. I do remember Nikolai mentioning that the Zolotovs are interested in bringing other crime families under their patronage to keep them under control, and I assume it’s related to that.

Now, it’s the newer members I’m more interested in. Abram, Vladimir, Denis, Mark, and Lara. The Zolotovs who just arrived in Philadelphia.

Of them all, it is Lara that’s coming to be of interest to me. Abram’s youngest sister, who until recently had been nothing more than a quiet, well-behaved young woman in the periphery of our world. I know, as I’ve met her a few times. We barely spoke more than a little bit about how she’s settling into Philadelphia. Beautiful, dainty, and mouse-like, her sudden involvement in high places has only fueled my curiosity, for I’m learning things about her that she’s hiding from those closest to her.

But why?

I recall the first time we crossed paths at an introductory dinner at Ivan’s. She stood near an elaborate ice sculpture, her eyes wide with wonder, unlike the bored expressions of the other guests. That sense of wonder is what drew me in toward herbefore I learned who she was. As she turned to leave, our eyes met briefly, and I couldn't help but notice the innocence in that fleeting glance.

"Mr. Orlov," she greeted softly, offering a small, strange curtsy before hurrying away. Back then, she knew who I was, but I didn’t even know her name. That brief encounter had left me intrigued by her presence, how out of place she seemed in cold Philadelphia, with her nervous fluttering about and excitement at every turn. But now, her late-night goings and comings have me questioning what may have changed.

She doesn’t seem all that innocent and fresh like she did on our first encounter.

There are pictures of her sneaking out of her apartment, with a CD enclosed. I push the CD into my drive. The surveillance footage shows her sneaking out of her home, dressed for a night out on the town. She’s dressed sexier than I’ve ever seen her be at a family event. A tight, red dress. Slinky black satin on another night. Sometimes, it’s jeans and a crop top. She frequents exclusive clubs, stays out late, and returns under the cloak of darkness. What could she possibly be up to?

I have no doubt her brothers are being kept in the dark. I’ve seen enough to notice how protective they seem to be of her.

What worries me is the company she might be keeping. There are photos of her partying with strange girls and dancing with stranger men. Any of them could know who she is and be using her to get close to the Orlovs. Unwittingly or knowingly, she could bring us all into danger.

So, if that means keeping a keen eye on Lara, I’ll do it.

---