Page 45 of Ruthless Daddies

“You’re not,” Alexei says firmly. “And actually, I had something in mind that might help. I was planning to spend some time in the garden later today. You should bring them.”

I blink at him, surprised but intrigued. “The garden?”

I’ve set up a little activity in the garden for them. Nothing too fancy, just something to get them out in the sun. If you’re up for it.”

I blink, surprised by the suggestion. “That sounds…perfect, actually. Thank you, Alexei.”

He inclines his head, his gaze lingering for a moment before he straightens. “It’s nothing. I’m their granduncle after all.” He winces. “I really hate that word.”

I chuckle. “Don’t worry, you don’t look the part at all.”

That seems to brighten him. “Ah, and you’re a charmer. I can see why the boys like you.”

My smile stays frozen on my lips. I really hope he has no idea what’s going on in the house. I’m playing a dangerous game here, getting involved with both Nikolai and Dmitri. If Ivan found out, he would not only kick me out but do something extreme.

My throat goes dry as my mind flashes back to last night. I came five times in a row, an unbelievable feat for a woman who had zero orgasms up until the start of this year. God.

“I’ll be outside, take your time.” Alexei pats my arm before walking away.

I find Luka and Mila in the playroom, seated at the piano, their tiny fingers hovering over the keys as they wait. Their eyes light up when they see me, but the tension in the room is undeniable. Marta stands nearby, her arms crossed, her disapproving gaze fixed on me.

“Good morning, Marta,” I say, keeping my tone polite despite the chilly reception.

“Miss Parker,” she replies curtly, her expression as frosty as ever. “The children are waiting for their lesson.”

“I know,” I say, stepping further into the room. “But I was thinking we could do something different today.”

Her eyes narrow slightly. “Different?”

“Yes,” I say, walking over to Luka and Mila. “I thought we could spend some time outside. Alexei set up an activity in the garden for them.”

Marta’s lips press into a thin line. “The children have a schedule for a reason, Miss Parker. And it’s not my place to remind you, but their piano lessons are a priority.”

I bite back a sigh.

“I understand the importance of their lessons, Marta, but they’ve been through a lot recently. A little time outside won’t hurt.”

Marta’s eyes flash, and for a moment, I wonder if she’s going to push back further. But instead, she steps closer, lowering her voice. “You’ve been here for a short time, Miss Parker. Let me remind you that these children need structure, not whims.”

Her words sting, but I don’t let it show. Instead, I smile, keeping my tone even. “What they need is a chance to be kids, Marta. Just for a little while.”

Marta huffs softly, clearly unimpressed. “As you wish,” she says finally, stepping back.

The garden is alive with the hum of bees and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The sun is warm, filtering through the trees and casting golden patches of light over the neatly kept flower beds. Alexei is crouched near the vegetable patch, a spade in one hand and a small sapling in the other. He looks up as we approach.

“Perfect timing,” he says, rising to his full height and dusting off his gloves. “I could use some extra hands.”

Luka and Mila glance at each other, their little faces skeptical. “You want us to help…plant?” Luka asks hesitantly, his small hand tightening around mine.

Alexei grins, holding up a pair of tiny gum boots and gloves. “Exactly. It’s messy work, but that’s half the fun.”

Mila wrinkles her nose, looking down at her clean little sneakers. “But…won’t you be mad if we get dirty?”

“Not at all,” Alexei replies, his tone warm and encouraging. “The dirtier you get, the better. That’s how you know you’re doing it right.”

I crouch down to their level, smiling. “If we all get dirty together, no one can be mad. Right?”

Mila’s lips curl into a tentative smile, and Luka’s hesitation melts away as he reaches for the gloves.

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