Page 20 of Deadly Vows

“Aleksandr, who would send this? What are they implying?” She cradled her stomach instinctively, searching my face for an answer.

My blood ran cold. It was a message, a threat. Vic was taunting us. Hot fury burned through me, but I forced myself to stay calm for Talia’s sake. “Olga, take the children upstairs,” I ordered.

They wrapped themselves around Talia, giving her a comforting hug before disappearing with Olga.

“It’s Vic,” I stated through gritted teeth. “He’s taunting us.”

I took her in my arms, trying to offer comfort. “I’ll find him, Talia.”

She nodded, but I could see the fear in her eyes. This is another reminder of the danger we faced, the constant threat hanging over us like a dark cloud. But it also strengthened my resolve. I will protect her and our child, no matter what. Vic would pay for his threats in blood, and I will ensure our family’s safety.

As the day dragged on, we stayed close, finding solace in each other’s presence. I held Talia, whispering promises of protection and a future together.

The following morning, I was up early. The previous day’s events still weighed heavily on my mind, but I pushed them aside. After a quick workout to clear my head, I showered and found Talia in the kitchen eating breakfast with Olga and the children.

“Good morning,” I said, trying to sound cheerful.

“Good morning,” they replied in unison.

I kissed Talia on her cheek and then sat down next to her. “Did you sleep well?”

“As well as expected,” her smile small and tense.

Abram brought a plate of food and hot coffee, setting them down before me on the table. “Thank you, Abram.”

“I spoke to Sandy,” Talia said, eyeing me cautiously. “She thinks it would be good for us to spend time together. A little retail therapy to take my mind off things and-”

“No,” I responded immediately, cutting her off mid-sentence.

“I think she’s right. The stress isn’t good for me or the baby.” She looked at me from under her lashes, her full lips evenmore plump from her slight pout. “Please, Aleksandr. I need this.”

I can’t say no to her. I know she’s been through a hell of a lot lately, and I want her to have a fun shopping day with Sandy, but it’s not safe. “It’s not safe right now. You need to stay here where I can protect you.”

“I can’t live like a prisoner,” she responded, visibly upset. Her cheeks turned a deep shade of pink as she continued. “I won’t let Vic or anyone else keep me from living my life.”

“Talia, you need to stay calm,” Olga said in a steady and soothing voice. “Remember what Dr. Daria said.”

“Please, Aleksandr, I need to see Sandy,” she pleaded, placing her hand on my forearm.

“Fine. You can go, but you will take Nikolai with you.” I sighed heavily, rubbing my aching temples.

“Thank you!” Talia jumped up from her seat, kissing me on the cheek. “I’ll call Sandy and tell her the good news.” She was smiling from ear to ear as she left the kitchen.

Pulling out my phone, I called Nikolai. “You will stay with Talia today. She is going shopping with her sister. Wherever she goes, you go. Don’t take your eyes off her.”

Ending the call, I finished my coffee, kissed the children, and then went to my office. I need to find thatmudakVic and put an end to this bullshit, once and for all.

Chapter 12

Talia

Aleksandr had finally agreed to let me go shopping with Sandy, a much-needed escape from the insanity that has been my life lately. I reached for my phone, dialing Sandy’s number with eager anticipation.

“Hey, sis! Guess what?” I could hardly contain my excitement as I heard her familiar voice on the other end.

“What’s going on? Why are you so happy,” she teased, a hint of curiosity lacing her words.

“Aleksandr is letting us go shopping today! He even gave me his credit card and said to buy whatever I wanted. Can you believe it?” I practically squealed.