Page 35 of Plus-Size Bratva Bride

“The first day always feels like we finally have some peace and quiet around here,” Adley laughed. “But then it gets harder not having them around.”

I nodded, knowing exactly what they meant. During the first two nights here, we had all shared dinner together. Now, things were quieter, and the two women sitting in front of me had busy lives of their own.

I had come to understand that Adley helped with her family’s business and managed her husband’s finances, while Emory, a psychotherapist, still saw a handful of clients each week. When they weren’t immersed in their work, their children took up much of their time.

“How long do you think they’ll be gone?” I asked, carefully.

The women exchanged loaded glances before Adley spoke up, “It’s hard to say.”

I saw a flicker of worry cross over Emory’s face. I could only imagine how difficult this must be for them, to know what their husbands do on a daily basis, being aware of how unsafe their line of work could be.

I nodded and fidgeted with the hem of my sweater, unsure of what to do next. The silence in the room was a bit awkward until Emory's eyes lit up.

"Hey, why don't we show you around the estate?" she suggested with a warm smile. "It's quite big, and you've been cooped up here for days. It might be nice to stretch your legs and see more of the place."

Adley's face mirrored her enthusiasm, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for their company. "That sounds wonderful," I replied with a smile, feeling a flicker of excitement at the prospect of exploring beyond the confines of the mansion.

As we embarked on our impromptu tour, Emory and Adley shared stories about the history of the estate, pointing out hidden nooks and crannies that held special significance.

“You see that Gazebo there?” Emory pointed at a beautiful spot in the garden, surrounded by blooming roses and a bubbling fountain. "That's where Vlad gave a speech to a crowd of a hundred on our first wedding anniversary," she reminisced, a soft smile gracing her lips.

Adley chuckled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "And I tripped over my own feet the first time Ivan brought me here. Graceful as ever."

I couldn't help but laugh along with them, feeling a sense of camaraderie growing between us as they continued to share snippets of their lives with me. It was refreshing to see this side of them, away from the shadows of their husbands' dangerous world.

Eventually, we sat down for a cup of tea in the garden, which the staff brought out.

“You know,” Emory said. “You should have your friends over sometimes. Make the best of being stuck on these grounds.”

A sense of wistfulness overcame me, and I felt a tight knot in my throat. Emory and Adley exchanged quick glances before Emory added. “Of course, it might be a little too soon right now. Whenever you’re ready.” She reached over and squeezed my hand.

Without even having had to say, Emory understood that this was all too much to explain. Her intelligence went deeper than I thought.

Just then, with her sweet way of helping me change my train of thought, Adley leaned in conspiratorially. "So, Pippa, ready for some Ustinov brothers gossip?"

I couldn't help but laugh. "I'm all ears."

"Well," Adley said, setting down a tray of steaming cups, "let me tell you about the time Ivan tried to surprise me with a romantic dinner."

I sipped my tea, relishing the warmth and company. Adley's eyes danced with mirth as she recounted, "He spent hours in the kitchen, determined to cook everything himself. When I came home, the entire house was filled with smoke, and Ivan was standing there, covered in flour, holding a fire extinguisher."

We all burst into laughter, and I found myself relaxing for the first time in days.

Emory shook her head, grinning. "At least Ivan tries. Vlad's idea of romance is upgrading our home security system."

"Really?" I asked, intrigued by this glimpse into their lives.

"Oh yes," Emory nodded. "He's always been the serious one. But…" Her voice softened. "…He shows he cares in his own way."

The mood shifted slightly, and I noticed yet another flicker of concern in both women's eyes.

"It's not always easy," Adley admitted, her smile fading. "Knowing what they do, the dangers they face…"

Emory reached out, squeezing Adley's hand. "But we knew what we were getting into, right?"

I felt a knot form in my stomach, thinking of them out there, doing God knows what. "How do you cope with the worry?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

They exchanged a knowing look before Adley replied, "We trust in their abilities, and in each other. It's all we can do."

---