Page 8 of An Arranged Virgin for the Bratva

I pace the length of my living room, my mind churning with possibilities, each step bringing me closer to a decision that could change everything. My plan is bold, unexpected—exactly what's needed to keep Sofia safe and strengthen both our families' positions.

Nikolai and Dima won't expect this,I think to myself, a hint of a smirk tugging at my lips.

Without hesitation, I pull out my phone and dial a number I rarely use. It rings twice before a gruff voice answers.

"Zolotov. What do you want?"

"Nikolai," I reply, my voice steady. "We need to talk. You, me, and Dima. It's about the future of our families."

There's a pause, then a chuckle. "Intriguing. Tomorrow, noon, our office."

"I'll be there," I confirm, ending the call.

As I prepare for bed, my mind is eerily calm. I know this is an insane step, yet why does it feel like the right one?

***

The next morning, I dress with precision, each movement deliberate. Dark suit, crisp white shirt, deep-blue tie. Armor for the battle ahead. I need to look perfect, to play the part of being worthy.

As I adjust my cufflinks, I catch my own gaze in the mirror.Sofia is fearless,I think to myself. So fearless, she could bring chaos to her doorstep and ours. I’m doing this for our families and, more importantly, to keep her safe. I’m certain her brothers don’t know what kind of company she’s been keeping.

The drive to the Orlov brothers' office is silent, my focus razor-sharp. I park, take a deep breath, and step out into the cool air. My strides are confident as I enter the building, nodding to the security guard who knows better than to stop me.

In the elevator, I allow myself a small smile. By the time I leave this building, everything will have changed.

I step into the Orlov brothers' office, the tension palpable in the air. The room is bright, with heavy curtains drawn apart to let in the midday sun. Nikolai and Dima sit behind a massive mahogany desk, their faces impassive. I take the seat across from them, my posture relaxed but alert.

"Vladimir," Nikolai begins, his voice gruff. "What's so important you needed to drag yourself here?"

I meet his gaze steadily. "I have a proposal that will benefit both our families."

Dima leans forward, his eyes narrowing. "And what might that be?"

"A marriage alliance," I state bluntly. "Between myself and Sofia."

The brothers exchange a look of surprise, then skepticism. Nikolai's lip curls slightly. "And why would we consider such an arrangement?"

I lean forward, my elbows on my knees. "Think about it. Our territories side by side, our resources combined. We'd be unstoppable. You’re both married to my sisters, and I would be married to yours. It sends a strong message to those who might try to find cracks in our alliance. That we are, truly, unbreakable.”

"Sofia isn't a bargaining chip," Dima growls, his protective instincts flaring.

"No, she's not," I agree, my voice firm. "She's a strong, capable woman who deserves respect and protection. I can offer both, along with the advantages to our families."

I stand, pacing the room as I continue my argument. "Imagine the power we could wield together. The Zolotov and Orlov names united. Our enemies wouldn't dare move against us."

My passion is evident in every word, every gesture. This isn't just about power or alliances anymore. It's about Sofia, about protecting her from whatever dangers she's mixed up in. But I can't reveal that knowledge, not yet.

"I'm serious about this," I finish making my point, my voice low and determined. "I wouldn't have come here if I wasn't. Give me this chance, and I promise you won't regret it."

I watch as Nikolai and Dima exchange a loaded glance. The skepticism in their eyes begins to waver, replaced by a flicker of consideration.

Nikolai leans back, stroking his chin. "You make some compelling arguments, Zolotov. I can't deny the potential benefits of what you propose."

"It could strengthen our position in the south," Dima adds, his voice gruff but thoughtful. "And expand our reach into new territories."

My heart races, but I keep my expression neutral. I hadn't expected them to warm to the idea so quickly.

"But what about Sofia?" Nikolai asks, his brow furrowed. "She's not exactly… approachable."

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