Page 21 of Deadly Vows

“He’s not worried about Vic?” she questioned.

“He insists on sending Nikolai with us. He’s still searching for Vic and doesn’t want to take any chances,” I explained, the gravity of the situation momentarily sobering my mood.

“That’s understandable. As long as we get to spend the day together, I’m okay with it,” Sandy replied, her voice resolute. “Besides, he still has guards watching over me, so I’m used to having a shadow.”

We finalized our plans and decided to meet at the mansion’s front gate. I hung up the phone and took a deep breath, resolving not to let the looming threat of Vic ruin this happy time in my life. I dressed quickly, opting for a comfortable yet stylish outfit of leggings and an oversized sweater, and went downstairs.

Nikolai was already waiting by the entrance, his stoic expression softening slightly when he saw me.

“Ready?” he asked, his deep-accented voice reassuring. His caramel-colored hair brushed the tops of his shoulders, and his blue eyes twinkled.

“Yes, and thank you for coming with us,” I replied, grateful for his presence despite my initial reservations. “I’m sure this isn’t how you want to spend your day.”

“It could be worse. I could be in Russia wrestling bear.” He laughed heartily, making me smile. He was tough and rough around the edges, but I could see why Sasha and Maxim loved him.

As we walked to the car, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of liberation. The mansion, while luxurious and safe, had started tofeel like a cage. I would taste freedom again today, for even just a few hours.

Sandy and Lev exited a dark grey SUV and walked toward us. I threw my arms around Sandy and hugged her tightly, soaking up every bit of sisterly love. Pulling apart, we slid into the backseat of a black sedan while our escorts got in front.

The drive to the shopping district was filled with animated chatter between Sandy and me. At the same time, Nikolai and Lev remained silent, their eyes constantly scanning our surroundings. I appreciated their vigilance, even if it sometimes felt a bit overbearing.

Our first stop was a baby store, its windows displaying an array of adorable outfits and toys. My heart swelled with joy as we stepped inside, the cheerful ambiance lifting my spirits even higher.

“Oh my gosh, Talia, look at these tiny shoes!” Sandy exclaimed, holding up a pair of miniature blue sneakers.

“They’re so cute! I can’t believe I’m going to be a mom,” I said, feeling excited and nervous.

“You’re going to be a great mom,” Sandy assured me, wrapping her arm around my shoulders. “And I’m going to be the best aunt!”

We spent the next hour selecting baby clothes, blankets, and other essentials. I lost track of time as we moved from one display to another, each item more adorable than the last. Nikolai and Lev trailed behind us, their presence easing the reminder of the dangers lurking outside.

After we had gathered a considerable amount of baby items, we decided to take a break and have lunch at a nearbycafé. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee greeted us as we entered, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

“I’ll have a decaf caramel latte and a turkey club sandwich,” I told the barista, smiling as she took my order.

Sandy opted for a cappuccino and a strawberry salad, and Nikolai and Lev ordered sandwiches. Sandy and I found a cozy table near the window while Nikolai and Lev sat at a table across from us, facing the entrance. As we sipped our drinks and enjoyed our meal, the conversation flowed easily, discussing everything from baby names to the latest gossip.

“This is exactly what I needed,” I said, leaning back in my chair and taking a deep breath. “Thank you for today, sis.”

“Of course. I’m just glad to see you so happy,” she replied, her eyes warm with affection.

We finished our lunch and continued shopping, eventually going to a women’s clothing store. As we entered, I turned to Nikolai.

“Would you and Lev mind waiting at the front of the store? We’d like to try on some clothes,” I asked, hoping he would agree.

He hesitated for a moment, looking at Lev before nodding. “We’ll be right here. Don’t take too long.”

With Nikolai and Lev stationed at the entrance, Sandy and I dove into the racks of clothes, giggling like schoolgirls as we selected outfits. It felt so ordinary, so wonderfully mundane, that I almost forgot about my troubles.

As we tried on dresses and sweaters, Sandy turned to me, a curious look in her eyes. “So, what’s going on with you and Aleksandr?”

I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. Sandy was my sister, and I wanted her to be happy for me. “We’re a couple now. I’m going to be staying with him at the mansion permanently.” I chewed on my lip nervously, waiting for her to respond.

Sandy’s deep blue eyes lit up with her smile. “That’s great, Talia! He better treat you right, or he’ll have me to deal with.”

“He does. He’s been amazing,” I admitted, feeling a warm glow in my chest as I thought about Aleksandr. “He wants to protect me and the baby. He wants us to be a family.”

Sandy pulled me into a hug. “I’m happy for you, really,” she said. “You deserve all the happiness in the world.”

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