Page 67 of Forced Bratva Hostage

The grin on my face broadened as I accepted the flowers, their sweet scent invading my senses.

“I remembered how much you love red roses,” he said, unable to control his smile, pleased that I loved them.

“They used to be Mom's favorite, too,” I said, my eyes crinkling at the corners as I sniffled the flowers.

“Yes,” he replied, “and my God, you look just like her when she was pregnant with you. Beautiful.”

At the thought of her, sadness crept into my heart, but I was quick to dispel it. Instead, I grinned wildly, choosing to bask in his compliment.

“May I?” He gestured at the space beside me.

“Sure,” I replied, tapping on the couch, an indication that he was welcome to sit.

He sank into the couch, his eyes never leaving my face. “I am so proud of the woman you've become, Wren,” he declared, a smile lingering on his lips.

Hearing him say those words touched my soul, and I could feel my reserved pain gradually seeping out of me.

He continued, his tone laced with sincerity, “For someone who grew up without proper parenting, you sure turned out to be the best version of yourself.” He paused, letting the words sink in for a moment. “You're an amazing woman, Wren, and you deserve all the happiness in the world, especially after all that you've been through.”

“Thank you,” I said, holding back a fresh stream of tears.

His eyes darted to my belly bump. “Is it a he or she?”

I rubbed my stomach and replied. “It's a she.”

His lips curled into a smile. “Amazing.” He was quiet, hesitant for a moment. “Can…can I stop by to see her when she's born?”

I giggled softly at his modesty. “You're her grandfather, aren't you?”

It was a good thing that he wanted to be present in her life; at least he'd make up for the years he was absent in mine.

“Quick question, though,” I said, my brows furrowing. “How did you get the money you brought on my wedding day?”

He laughed lightly. “I took a loan—and before you say anything, it might interest you to hear that I invested the money in a small-scale business, and I've been able to pay it back,” he explained without giving room for my reaction. “So far, the business is quite profitable, and it's booming.”

My brows arched in surprise and disbelief. “Wow! Dad, that's incredible. I'm proud of you,” I said, smiling uncontrollably.

“Not as proud as I am of you, sweetheart.” He took my hand, squeezing gently.

I had a husband who loved and adored me, we had a baby girl on the way, and now my father was back in my life, willing to be a part of it sincerely. What more could I ask for?

If this was a dream, then I'd rather not wake up at all.

Chapter 23 – Afanasy

Wren lay back on the pillows, her body relaxed, and her shoulders slumped in exhaustion. Her skin was pale, dampened with sweat from all that pushing.

She cast her tired eyes on me, a gentle smile playing on her lips as sniffled, watching me cradle our newborn baby.

The baby's face was scrunched up, her tiny features compressed into an adorable package. Her eyes were closed, eyelids fluttering with each soft breath. She lay in my strong arms, comfortable and confident that those arms would always keep her safe.

I knew the moment she was born that I would start a fucking war over her; I would kill for this baby and would give my life up for her. My heart swelled with a lot of emotions, overwhelming me all at once.

My eyes misted like I was about to shed tears of joy— a feeling I was unfamiliar with. I used to think that Wren had brought out the softest part of me, but I was wrong. I assumed that too early, considering how this new member of the family made me feel.

I held her in my arms, cradling her head and body, my fingers gently supporting her tiny limbs. My warm palm enveloped her small frame, thumb delicately stroking her soft skin.

My smile broadened as I stared at this little angel, unable to tear my gaze off her. She was my child…my daughter.

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