Page 5 of Bought By the Bratva

Knowing my brother, the long-term shouldn’t be an issue. Yet, Anton and Akim, on the other hand, will ruin the plans. We had to keep them in the dark. I didn’t know if Alexandr would agree, but I felt it was the only way to get her to open up.

Opening the door and entering slowly, I saw her sitting in a corner. Nadia sat on the floor, hugging her knees to her chest. I could see she was ready to jump up and run. But knowing this was their plan, I felt sure she wouldn’t try to escape.

Playing along, I walked slowly as I spoke. “Hi, I’m not going to hurt you.”

She appeared to be shaking slightly, and I wondered if she was cold or if it was part of her innocent look. Taking off my coat, I held it out to her. “Are you cold?” I inquired.

Nadia nodded as she rose to her feet. The redness on her cheek was very prominent and had started swelling. I was sure the hit wasn’t supposed to be that hard, but maybe it was. I placed my jacket around her as I continued. “You are safe, I won’t let anyone hurt you anymore.”

Deep down, I felt a stir in my insides. Yet, all of my instincts were screaming danger at the top of their voices. I knew things could go wrong but was determined to see it through.

Nadia leaned against my chest as we walked out. I was sure there was something between us. But I knew it could never work. Opening the car door, I glanced around, ensuring we weren’t followed. I took her to the nearest hotel as it was past midnight.

I had to let Tasha know what was happening and needed to be a hundred percent sure before I took her to my mansion.

“What are we doing here?” Nadia asked as I stopped.

“There’s something I need to do. We won’t be long,” I said as the valet opened our doors. Walking around the car, I took her hand and led her inside. Tasha had already arranged for a room, and I just collected the key.

Once we were upstairs, I ordered some room service: “A pot of coffee, two cups, some fruit, bagels, a cheese plate, and protein bars, I guess. Oh, and an ice pack, please.” Nadia smiled at me as I spoke over the phone.

“I hope you drink coffee,” I said, placing the phone on its perch. Nadia nodded lightly. “I wasn’t sure if you were hungry, so I ordered some snack foods as well.”

“Yes, I heard, thanks,” she replie,d taking off her shoes.

“You can have a shower and change if you want?” I added, pulling out my cell phone. “I have to make a quick call.”

“No, it’s fine, I’ll wait for room service,” she responded softly.

Nadia sat on the couch as I stepped out on the balcony to make a call. Dailing Tasha’s number, I turned and leaned againstthe railing. Tasha fiddled with the bottom of the dress she wore. She appeared so innocent, my heart ached for her pain.

I knew the reason she was here. But there was something about her. I just couldn’t put a finger on it.

Chapter 4 - Nadia

I felt excited and scared at the same time. I was astounded that our plan had worked, and I was in. The fact that he brought me to a hotel showed his caution, but I would break his barriers soon enough.

Abram went out to make a call while I waited for room service. The doorbell rang, and I let them in. I poured some coffee and had a couple of bites from the cheese plate while he was still outside.

I watched him, it seemed like he was having a light conversation. He smiled, turned around, and back again. His movements were smooth. The way he conveyed himself made him look like a man of importance. In this world, I supposed he was.

I quickly texted my cousin to let him know I was in and then switched off my phone. I didn’t want my cousins to text or call while I wasn’t completely alone.

Once he came back in, he smiled, poured some coffee, and sat down. “You can rest if you want,” he said, blowing the steam hovering over his cup.

“What about you?” I asked softly.

“I’m good, thank you. I’m waiting to hear if everything is set so we can leave. It might take an hour or two, and I’m sure you’re tired,” he pushed.

Nodding, I got up and went to the room. I was relieved to be out of his penetrating gaze. I lay down on the soft bed and closed my eyes just for a minute.

Sitting up, I stretched out. I wondered how long I slept. It wasn’t quite daytime yet, but the light outside was starting toturn. Getting up, I grabbed my bag and went to the bathroom. I took a quick shower and changed into something more comfortable. I still felt a bit groggy, but less so than earlier.

I studied the slight red hue still left on my cheek and wondered if the man had intended to hit me so hard.

Exiting the bathroom, I heard a knock on the bedroom door, followed by Abram’s voice. “Are you up?”

“Yes,” I replied. “I’ll be right out.”

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