Akim Pulled the chair out. He pushed one hand through his hair as he sat down. He let out a deep sigh. “Someone has been snooping, and I know trouble is coming. I just can’t get a handle on things,” he breathed out.

I felt the anger I had been trying to control ignite within me. I stood so quickly that my chair flipped over. “Akim,” I huffed before realizing I was about to go off.

He glanced up at me, and I could see fear and shame on his face. Taking a deep breath, I slowed the bubbling volcano within. “Why did you not come to me earlier?” I asked. I tried to steady my tone by clenching my fists and breathing in deeply.

“I wanted something concrete before I came to you, but last night…,” Akim looked at the window as his words trailed off.

“Last night what, Akim?” I asked through gritted teeth.

“I was followed to the shipyard. I only realized once the three cars pulled in and parked on the side of the warehouse next to ours in the dark,” he mumbled.

“That one’s empty,” I replied.

“Yes, that’s why I knew they were following me.”

“So, you went out and got drunk instead?” I asked in disbelief.

Akim glared at me as he continued. “No, that’s the last thing I remember!”

This wasn’t right. It had to be the enemy Bratva. I had to do something before we lost men and possibly one of our operations. “I will handle this, lay low for now. Stay here,” I said, moving around the desk exiting my office.

My blood was boiling. It had been a long time since the last time I felt so furious. I decided I would ask Mila to assist. Butwe had to move quickly. We needed to gather intel on the rival companies. We had to know what we were up against.

Walking through the house briskly, I searched for Mila. I couldn’t find her inside so headed outside. I was about halfway through the Maze of Roses when I spotted her. She was lying on the grass reading. She appeared so peaceful, I stood for a tad, not wanting to disturb her.

I was not merely smiling as I approached her. I was beaming. She was still a vision to me. She looked like a fallen angel surrounded by green grass and colorful roses. Kneeling by her feet, I tenderly. “Is it a good book, dear?”

Mila tried to scramble backward, dropping the book on her face as she moved. She let out a small yelp and I couldn’t help but laugh. “I’m sorry, are you okay?” I always had a knack for being silent. My intention wasn’t to scare her, but I did.

She gave me a playful glare shaking her head. Seeing that was worth the scolding that followed. “How dare you sneak up on me?”

“My dear, I didn’t intend on scaring you. I am sorry,” I added, sitting down at her feet.

Mila lifted her head and looked away as she replied. “I’m fine, thank you. What brings you out to spy on me? I thought you went to work.”

I chuckled, moving closer to her. “Mila, believe it or not, that is why I am here.”

My wife focused all her attention on me. Her look was filled with confusion and doubt. It hurt that she still didn’t trust me fully. But I knew I was on the right track at making us work. I wanted to build an empire with her, which meant including her.

As I spoke, I felt my possessive instinct kicking in. I fought it down, not wanting anything to cause a rift between us. “Dear, I need your help.”

Mila looked at me up and down, her eyes filled with disbelief. “Okay,” she said hesitantly.

“We need to gather intel on the rival Mafia group that’s been following us,” I added, taking her hand. “But only if you want to.”

“Are you kidding?” Mila replied, hugging me. “I would love to help. Just tell me where you need me and what I must do.” Pulling back, she kissed my cheek warmly as she continued. “When do I start?”

Smiling at her, I wanted to pick her up and carry her to our room. My mind was suddenly invaded with thoughts of having her back in bed. Her passion was evident every time she spoke of working. Taking her face in my hands, I leaned closer. She didn’t pull away as our lips met.

I felt her energy sparking through me, and then I pulled back. My breathing was turning rugged. Soon, I wouldn’t be able to control my hunger for her. Clearing my throat, I spoke as calmly as I could. “You will be joining Tasha and our other two hackers at the office for the day.”

Mila beamed as she jumped up, “So, what are we waiting for, an invitation?”

Rising to my feet, I felt my heart swelling. Seeing her so happy was more than satisfying. I followed her in as she skipped all the way back to the house. “Do I need to change or take something?” she huffed, turning in the entrance hall.

“No, my dear, we can go if you are ready?” I responded.

Mila headed out the door and straight to the car. As I followed, I realized I hadn’t seen her this excited before. It was heartwarming witnessing this side of her. The drive to the office was quiet. Mila sat staring out the window, smiling broadly at the world.