Page 64 of An Arranged Virgin for the Bratva

"I'm glad to hear it," Vlad says sincerely. "If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask."

As we walk away, I can't help but study Vlad's profile. "That was… unexpected," I murmur.

He glances at me, a small smile playing on his lips. "What? Did you think I was all teeth and claws, Sofia?"

I shrug, trying to maintain my cool facade. "Can you blame me after how I saw you make that manager tremble?"

Vlad chuckles, the sound low and rich.

Just then, we approach a young waiter carefully balancing a tray of champagne flutes. Vlad's face breaks into a rare, genuine smile. "My friend! I heard the good news. Congratulations on becoming a father."

The waiter's eyes light up, his posture straightening with pride. "Thank you, Sir. It's been quite the adventure already."

I find myself oddly moved by the exchange. "A boy or a girl?" I ask, surprising even myself with my interest.

He beams at me. "A little girl, Ma'am. We named her Anya."

"Anya," I repeat, tasting the name on my tongue. "That's beautiful. I'm sure she'll grow up to be as hardworking as her father."

Vlad's hand finds the small of my back, a warm, steady presence. "And as kind as her mother, I hope," he adds, his voice low and approving.

As we move away, leaving behind a glowing waiter, Vlad leans in close. "That was nicely done, Sofia. You have a talent for this."

I arch an eyebrow, my voice dripping with sarcasm. "For what? Basic human interaction?"

He chuckles, the sound rumbling through me. "For making people feel valued."

I feel a warmth spreading through me, joy at making him feel proud.

As we approach the security control room, a thought strikes me. I pause, my eyes scanning the monitors lining the walls.

"You know," I say, my voice carefully neutral, "you could improve efficiency by reconfiguring these camera angles. There's significant overlap in some areas, leaving others vulnerable."

Vlad turns to me, surprise flickering across his face. "Oh?" he prompts, his tone curious.

I nod, pointing to specific screens. "See here and here? Adjust these, and you'd have a clearer view of the back entrance without compromising coverage of the main floor."

For a moment, Vlad is silent. Then, to my astonishment, a rare smile breaks across his face. "Impressive, Sof. I'll have the team implement that immediately."

I shrug, trying to suppress the warmth blooming in my chest at his approval. "Just an observation."

Suddenly, a commotion erupts on one of the screens. A man at the blackjack table is shouting, his face red with anger. Vlad's demeanor shifts instantly, his body tensing as he barks orders into his earpiece.

"Potential situation at table seven. Security, converge but do not engage until my signal."

I watch, mesmerized, as Vlad strides purposefully toward the disturbance. His presence alone seems to calm the chaos, the angry man faltering as Vlad approaches.

"Sir." Vlad's voice is low, authoritative. "Is there a problem we can assist you with?"

The man sputters, gesturing wildly. "This dealer… he's cheating! I know it!"

I narrow my eyes, assessing the situation. "Vlad," I murmur, stepping closer. "Look at his left hand. He's palming something."

Vlad's gaze flicks to me, then back to the man. Without missing a beat, he nods to his security team. "Check his sleeves and pockets. Thoroughly."

As they pat down the irate customer, I can't help but feel a thrill of satisfaction. Vlad leans in, his breath warm against my ear. "Sharp eyes, Sofia."

I allow myself a small smirk. "Someone has to give you a run for their money, don't they?"

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