Page 72 of Plus-Size Bratva Bride

I smiled, snuggling closer. "Just… how happy I am. How excited I am for our future."

He pressed a kiss to the top of my head. "Me too, Sweetheart. Me too."

I traced my fingers along Abe's chest, a contented sigh escaping my lips. "So, tell me more about this dream home of ours," I murmured, curiosity getting the better of me. “And where are going to live until it’s done?”

Abe chuckled, the sound rumbling through his chest. "Impatient as always, my little firecracker."

I propped myself up on an elbow, arching an eyebrow at him. "Can you blame me? You've dangled this tantalizing piece of our future in front of me. It's only fair I get some details."

His eyes sparkled with amusement. "Well, I was thinking about a library for you. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a cozy window seat…"

My heart skipped a beat. "Really?"

"Of course," he said softly, tucking a stray curl behind my ear. "Anything you want, Pippa. And in the meantime, we’ll stay at my family home. Both places will belong to us, in their own special way.”

I sighed with contentment and looked up at him with a smile. "I can’t wait."

Chapter 26 - Abe

There she stood, my Pippa, a vision in white lace that hugged her beautiful curves. Her eyes locked with mine, shimmering with unshed tears of joy. My heart thundered in my chest, a feeling I'd never experienced before meeting her. Truth is, she rendered me speechless.

"I, Pippa, take you, Abrahim…" Her voice trembled slightly as she began her vows.

I couldn't tear my gaze away from her glowing face, framed by those light brown curls I loved to run my fingers through. Her seven-month baby bump, proudly on display in her form-fitting gown, only made her more radiant. Fuck, how did I get so lucky?

When it was my turn, I cleared my throat, pushing past the unexpected lump of emotion. "I, Abrahim, take you, Pippa, to be my wife. I promise to protect you, cherish you, and love you fiercely for all of our days." My voice softened as I continued, "You've shown me a life far more beautiful than what I imagined possible. With you, I've found a home I never knew existed for the likes of me."

Pippa's eyes widened and she tilted her head at my uncharacteristic display of vulnerability, a sweet smile playing on her soft, pink-painted lips. I wanted nothing more than to kiss her right then and there.

As if reading my mind, the officiant declared, "You may now kiss the bride."

I didn't need to be told twice. I cupped Pippa's face in my hands and claimed her lips with a passion that probably wasn't entirely appropriate for a church. But hey, I'd never been one to play by the rules.

The church erupted in applause and cheers. I reluctantly broke the kiss, keeping an arm wrapped possessively around Pippa's waist as we turned to face our guests.

My brothers, Vlad and Ivan, were on their feet, whooping like we were at a boxing match instead of a wedding. Their wives, Adley and Emory, looked on with amused and joyful expressions, no doubt used to their husbands' antics by now.

As we made our way down the aisle, I leaned in close to Pippa's ear. "You look fucking gorgeous, pip," I murmured. "I can't wait to get you alone later."

Pippa's elbow connected with my ribs, but her eyes sparkled with mischief. "Behave yourself, Mr. Ustinov. We have guests to entertain."

I grinned, already plotting ways to steal her away during the reception. After all, what was the point of being a feared member of the Unholy Trinity if I couldn't bend the rules at my own wedding?

***

The reception hall buzzed with laughter and chatter as Pippa and I made our rounds. I kept my hand on the small of her back, feeling the warmth of her skin through the delicate lace of her gown.

"Congratulations, you two!" Vlad Vadim's booming voice cut through the noise as he approached us, Mariana on his arm. "And to you especially, my dear Pippa. You're positively glowing."

I couldn't help but puff up with pride. "Thanks, Vlad. We're pretty damn happy."

Pippa leaned into me, her hand resting on her swollen belly. "Thank you both for being here. It means the world to us."

Mariana embraced Pippa gently. "We wouldn't miss it for anything. You're family."

As they moved on, I caught sight of Nikolai and Giselle Vadim headed our way. "Incoming," I muttered to Pippa. "Brace yourself for Giselle's enthusiasm."

Pippa giggled. "Be nice. She means well."

---