Page 63 of Brutal Promise

“Well, get used to it. You’re going to be a Volkov.”

We reach the door to the plane, and Izzy stops so abruptly that I almost run into her. Being this close makes my body zing with energy. I can’t wait to share my life experiences and show her new things. This desire to include a woman in my world and bring her into the family fold is all new to me.

“Wow! This is amazing. I never dreamed I’d fly in something like this.”

I peer over her shoulder and see lots of glossy wood and four cream-colored leather seats, two on each side of the aisle. Behind them is an eating area with a polished wood table and overstuffed booths. Beyond this is the entertainment area with a couch and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall. Without looking, I know there is a bedroom complete with a full-size bathroom. The best part about flying private is not sharing a toilet with hundreds of other passengers on a commercial flight.

“Let me take your coat. You won’t be needing it,” I suggest.

“I feel underdressed,” she murmurs but allows me to slide it off her delicate shoulders.

Doesn’t she know she’s beautiful no matter what she’s wearing?

“You’re fine. You always look gorgeous. Make yourself at home. I’m going to check on the food my brother preordered.”

Opening the coolers in the galley, I find them fully stocked with seafood and beverages. It’s a long flight, so we need plenty to eat and drink.

For billionaires, a private plane is a home away from home. This home comes with wings. My brother likes what our money can buy, and to his credit, he didn’t skimp on transportation.

Izzy makes her way to the leather club chairs.

“I assume we need to sit here for takeoff,” she says, making herself comfortable.

“Yes, but you have a minute to check out the plane if you like. There’s even a bedroom in the back.”

“I’m fine,” she says, dropping her purse on the plush carpeted floor and buckling her seat belt. “I believe you.” She glances at me and winks. “There will be plenty of time for that later.”

Is she for real? I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t explore first.

I walk past her and make my way to the bedroom. I hang the coat in the closet and check the outfits already hanging there. I open a dresser drawer to make sure her sleepwear and a change of intimates are here, and they are.

I send a text to my brother.

Dmitry:Everything went according to plan.

Nikolay:Great, see you in the morning, he replies.

I return to Izzy and sit in the club chair next to her. I’m like a kid who’s waited his entire life to celebrate his birthday. I feel guilty like I did all this for myself to enjoy her shocked expression. The reality is that I made sure this flight was perfect for her.

“How long before we take off?” Izzy cranes her neck to look out the window. There’s really nothing to see yet, just a sea of concrete.

“Soon. Once we’re in the air, we can eat. Are you hungry?”

“Yes, and a cup of coffee would be great.”

“I picked food I wanted to share with you.”

“You did, did you?”

“Yes, it’s a cosmopolitan theme. I think you’ll be happy.” I’m nonchalant. If I were in London or Russia, I would order from my favorite restaurants. I told Anton I wanted the best place to deliver the food this morning.

She has yet to learn that I spoke to Anya and Nikolay about her career ambitions. They wanted to know all about her and what she wants to do with her degree. They contacted a designer to set up my house in preparation for our arrival.

“Oh, just so you know, my mother and Anya have booked a venue for the wedding. Most places are booked a year in advance, so we were lucky to get a cancellation.”

“That’s nice of them. Is everything already arranged, or do I get a say in anything?”

“There isn’t enough time. Anya hired a professional wedding planner, but I’m sure you will be involved.”

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