Page 73 of Plus-Size Bratva Bride

"Pippa!" Giselle practically squealed, engulfing my wife in a careful hug. "You look absolutely stunning! And Abe, I never thought I'd see the day you'd settle down. Miracles do happen!"

I raised an eyebrow. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Giselle."

Nikolai clapped me on the shoulder. "She's not wrong, Brother. But we're all thrilled for you both. Sorry, most of the family couldn’t make it except us. Billie’s pregnant and on the last stretch, and Pietro is with her. The rest are out of town."

"How is Billie doing?" Pippa asked warmly. "I really wanted to compare pregnancy notes." She winked at Giselle.

Giselle chuckled. "Last I saw, she was demolishing the dessert table. Pregnancy cravings are no joke."

Pippa's eyes lit up. "Oh! I too should check out the dessert table. For the baby, of course."

"Of course," I agreed, amused as we said our goodbyes to the couple and made our way toward the sweets. "Just save some for the rest of us, yeah?"

On the way, I caught Ivan's eye across the room. He raised his glass in a silent toast, a knowing smirk on his face. Inodded back, feeling a surge of contentment. This was my family now—chaotic, dangerous, and utterly perfect.

***

The opening strains of a slow song filled the air, and I instinctively reached for Pippa's hand. "May I have this dance, Mrs. Ustinov?"

Her green eyes sparkled as she placed her hand in mine. "Always, Mr. Ustinov."

I led her to the dance floor, my heart swelling as I took in her radiant beauty. The soft curves of her body, accentuated by her flowing wedding gown, fit perfectly against my frame.

"You're staring," Pippa murmured, a blush creeping across her cheeks.

I grinned, unapologetic. "Can you blame me? My fierce, gorgeous wife is carrying our child. I'm the luckiest bastard alive."

She rolled her eyes, but I caught the pleased smile tugging at her lips. "Such a charmer. Who would've thought the great Abrahim Ustinov would turn into such a sap?"

"Only for you, Love," I whispered, pulling her closer. "Only for you."

As we danced, the world seemed to fade away. The lively chatter and laughter of our guests became a distant hum. All I could focus on was the feel of Pippa in my arms, the gentle swell of her belly pressing against me, a tangible reminder of our future.

"Abe," Pippa said softly, her eyes meeting mine. "I never thought I'd have this. A family, I mean. After my parents…"

I brushed a curl from her face, my throat tight with emotion. "You'll never be alone again, Pippa. I swear it."

The music swelled, and around us, the reception continued in full swing. I could see Ivan twirling Adley, both of them laughing. Vlad and Emory were engaged in what looked like an intense dance-off, much to the amusement of the surrounding guests.

"Look at them all," Pippa mused, following my gaze.

I chuckled, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Why look at them when we can show these amateurs how it's really done?"

Pippa's eyes widened. "Abe, don't you dare—”

But it was too late. With a wink, I spun her out, then pulled her back in, dipping her low, but nottoolow. Her surprised laugh, clear and bright, rang out just as people around us began to whoop, filling my heart with warmth.

***

When the music shifted to a slower tempo, I caught Pippa's eye. A spark of mischief lit up on her face and she gave me a subtle nod. Without a word, I knew exactly what she was thinking. I leaned forward, my heart racing with anticipation.

"Ready to make our great escape, Mrs. Ustinov?" I murmured, my lips brushing her ear.

Pippa's cheeks flushed prettily. "Lead the way, Mr. Ustinov."

With practiced ease, we slipped away from the dance floor, our fingers intertwined. I guided her through the crowd, nodding and smiling at guests as we passed, but never slowingour pace. The moment we cleared the reception hall, I pulled Pippa into a secluded alcove, hidden from prying eyes.

"Well, well," I drawled, pressing her gently against the wall. "Looks like I've got you all to myself now."

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