Page 15 of Deadly Vows

“I don’t feel strong,” I admitted. “I feel confused and scared.”

“That’s normal,” she said, squeezing my hand. “Just remember, you have to decide what you want and what you’re willing to accept. Aleksandr may never be the man you dream of, but if he cares for you, that’s a start.”

I nodded, her words resonating with me. The future was uncertain, but for now, I was grateful for this moment of clarity and my sister’s support.

We spent the night watching movies and eating popcorn until we fell asleep together, cuddled in Sandy’s bed.

The next morning, I woke to the sounds of silverware clinking in the kitchen. I climbed out of bed, wrapped the soft throw blanket around my shoulders, and left the bedroom. Ivan and Nikolai were sipping coffee on the sofa. At the same time, Sandy was perched on a stool, watching Dimitri fry eggs on the stove.

“Good morning,” Sandy greeted. “Are you hungry?”

“I’m always hungry,” I laughed. “It’s hard work growing a baby.”

“Sit,” Dimitri pointed to the empty stool next to Sandy.

“Smells delicious,” I groaned, licking my lips.

Leaning toward Sandy I whispered, “He’s handsome and cooks.” I lightly elbowed her in the ribs as her cheeks turned a deep shade of red.

“Cut it out,” she giggled.

Dimitri placed two plates full of delicious eggs, bacon, and toast in front of us. I devoured mine and then asked for more. When I was satisfied, I prepared to return to the mansion. Sandyhugged me tightly, whispering words of encouragement. “Stay strong, Talia. You’ll figure this out. And staysafe.”

“I will,” I promised, feeling a renewed sense of determination.

The drive back was quiet. I had a lot to think about, and decisions to make. I couldn’t change Aleksandr, but maybe, just maybe, I could find a way to navigate this complicated relationship and build the family I had always dreamed of.

As we pulled up to the mansion, I breathed deeply, ready to face whatever came next. This was my life now, with all its challenges and uncertainties, and I was determined to make the best of it for myself and the baby.

Chapter 9

Aleksandr

Talia’s return felt like a whisper of warmth in the cold expanse of the mansion. It seemed emptier without her presence, shedding light on how much she had come to mean to me. Yet, as always, I wouldn’t tell her that.

The life I led demanded a certain distance, a coldness that could not be penetrated by sentiment or weakness. Even as Talia’s footsteps echoed through the grand hallway, I kept my composure. I had been waiting, though I would never admit it.

“Good morning,” she said softly, her voice carrying the warmth of home.

“Good morning,” I replied, my tone neutral. “How was your stay with Sandy?”

“Good. It was nice to catch up,” she said, a hint of hesitation in her voice. She looked at me, searching for any sign of emotion, but I gave her none. “How are the children?”

“They missed you, but they are well.” I stood up from the sofa and folded the newspaper I was perusing. “Breakfast is ready in the kitchen. I need to make a few calls.”

She nodded, disappointment painting her face. She went toward the kitchen while I headed to my office. The door closed behind me with a soft click, and I was once again enveloped in the cold, calculating world I had built for myself. I only wanted to feel Talia in my arms, her plump lips against mine. I wanted to kiss her pregnant belly and make love to her as we wasted the day away in the warmth of my bed.

But that was not the future that awaited me. Vic had disappeared, slipping into the shadows like a ghost. My vors and the Yakuza were scouring the city for any trace of him, but he had gone underground. Not only was I hunting him, but his boss, Tommy, was also on his trail. Vic had made the fatal mistake of stealing from the Lupani family, and he would pay it back with his blood. He was a marked man from all sides.

Frustration gnawed at me. He continued to elude me, and each day that passed without finding him was another day of rage simmering just under the surface. I needed a distraction to take my mind off the relentless hunt.

My thoughts turned to Talia. I exited my office and found her in the kitchen, finishing her breakfast.

“Talia,” I said, and she looked up, her eyes curious. “We are going out tonight.”

“Out?” she asked, surprised. “Where to?”

“A restaurant in the city. Just the two of us,” I replied, my tone leaving no room for argument.

---