Page 49 of The Bratva's Knocked-Up Bride

I think for a moment. I’m desperate to take this test and find out the results as soon as possible, but the last place I want to do it is in some grimy pharmacy washroom.

Yet, I can’t find it in me to wait.

“I’m going to take the test quickly,” I say, peering around at our surroundings. “Keep an eye out for me, will you?”

I arrive at the bathroom almost too quickly. The small space feels constricted, the air thick with tension as I set the box down on the counter.

“Are you ready for this?” Riley asks, her voice low as she leans against the door. Her expression is a mix of concern and support.

“Stop,” I immediately respond. I don’t even want to consider the possibility that my worst fear might be true. “I don’t know,” I admit a few seconds later, the weight of my emotions threatening to spill over. “What if I am? What does that mean for us? For Roman?”

She moves closer, her hand resting on my shoulder. “You’ll figure it out. You two seem like you are strong together. You can handle anything.”

Her words give me a bit of comfort, but I can’t shake the anxiety tightening in my chest. I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself as I open the box and pull out the test.

“Okay, just give me a minute,” I say, feeling the rush of urgency and fear pulse through me as I step into the bathroom stall and close the door behind me.

Once I’m alone, I stare at the test, my mind racing with possibilities. I can’t help but wonder what it would mean for Roman and me.

I have no idea if he’s ready to be a father or if I’m ready to be a mother.

I take another deep breath, focusing on the task at hand. “Just do it,” I tell myself, and I take my time to gather my thoughts before proceeding.

As I follow the instructions, a whirlwind of emotions engulfs me, and I can’t shake the feeling that my entire life is about to change.

Chapter 18 - Roman

My phone has been blowing up since I rolled out of bed, leaving the warmth of my wife nestled under the covers to head out for work for the day. I wanted to stay with her, but Luka was returning soon, and I had yet to begin taking care of the casino the way I envisioned I would.

My phone blares with a constant stream of notifications. Victor is relaying every single piece of information the Vultures are sending his way, and I roll my eyes as he quotes their messages of empty threats; they’re all bark and no bite. Attacking the Milovs is the last thing they want to do. They know it, and I know it.

Besides, they already fucked up once when they kidnapped Riley, crossing us and then being stupid enough to try to blackmail us into taking a shitty deal.

Boris arrives, and I can’t help but feel a mix of relief and annoyance. His imposing figure fills the doorway, his usual stern expression softened by something more vulnerable.

“I heard you’ve been handling things,” he says, stepping inside.

I nod, gesturing for him to take a seat. “Yeah, just keeping the peace.”

To my surprise, he leans back, a hint of pride glimmering in his eyes. “I’m proud of you, Roman. You’ve done well to handle this on your own.”

His words hit harder than I expected. I’ve always felt the weight of my family's expectations, and while I knew I could do it, hearing it from him feels validating. “Thanks, Boris. It’s been a hell of a ride, but I didn’t have much of a choice.”

He nods, understanding etched across his face. “You proved it to yourself. That’s what matters.”

We settle into a heart-to-heart conversation that had been rare between us before Fiona came into his life. He opens up about how she’s changed him, softening his edges.

“Do you think I’ve become too soft?” he asks, chuckling slightly.

I shake my head. “No, man. You’re still the same ruthless guy I know. Just… more human.”

He smirked, his expression turning serious as he leaned in. “And how’s Gwen? She handled everything okay?”

The mention of her name sends a wave of warmth through me, but there’s also an edge of worry. “She’s adjusting. I think having Riley back will help, but I’m still worried about her. This life—it’s not easy.”

Boris nods thoughtfully. “You’re right. But you just need to be there for her, Roman. Navigate her closely every step of the way. Women like that—strong and loyal—need to know they’re valued. Don’t forget to show her you care.”

“Yeah, I know,” I reply, running a hand through my hair. “I just don’t want to overwhelm her.”

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