Page 28 of The Bratva's Virgin Bride

“Hey, sisters,” she says with a grin. “Ready to go eat?”

“Yeah,” I say quietly.

“What's wrong?” she asks as she pulls into traffic. “Viktor hasn't done something bad, has he?”

“No, no. He's been a perfect gentleman,” I quickly say, not wanting to reveal what happened last night, even if Gwen is my best friend. I don't want her to think I'm some stupid child who crushes on the man who rescues her. It's just not who I am. We fall into silence for a few moments before Gwen smiles. “The trip was fantastic.” She glances at me. “Roman and I had a great time after he got over Viktor's little plan.”

“Was he that mad?” I ask. “I hope he isn't mad at me.”

“Not at all. He knows it wasn't your idea. That you were coerced into it. Viktor can be quite charming. All the brothers can be. Watch out for Anton. He's a real player.” She laughs. “Anya will tell you her brothers are full of nonsense. They bickerall the time over everything, and no one ever approves of what the other one does.”

“Even Rigor? He doesn't approve of Viktor and I?” I ask curiously.

“I don't know what he thinks. That's what they're discussing today, I think. Rigor is pretty chilled, though. Apparently, getting married calmed him right down. His wife is lovely. I've met her a few times.”

“Okay,” I say quietly.

“You sure you're okay?”

“It's just weird. We're sisters by marriage now, and it just feels… I don't know. I don't know how to put it into words,” I say. “I feel like everything is backward and I don't know which way to turn.”

“This family can do that to you, but you'll gain your footing really quickly. I did. Everything is going to turn out okay, you'll see.” She pulls into a parking spot and shuts the engine off. Martin pulls into the spot next to us and gets out, glancing around. I get out of Gwen's car, and we head into the restaurant. We're immediately seated in the VIP section, and the server brings us menus.

Once we're settled and have ordered, Gwen says, “I wouldn't stress too much about the family. Like I said, it's going to work out. ”

“It's different for you,” I say after a moment. “From the moment Roman laid eyes on you, he wanted you. Viktor married me to protect me, and to protect the family. It isn't the same.”

Gwen looks at me sadly. “You don't know what can happen.”

“I know what I see and what I feel and what I know,” I sigh and look away. “Viktor is someone who is experienced, and who wants someone who is experienced, and I'm not. I can tell.”

“You might be misreading the situation,” she says gently.

I shake my head. “I'm not stupid, Gwen. I know how it works. I'm not the one Viktor wants. Let's talk about something else.”

Gwen starts telling me about her holiday and the things she and Roman did. I try to pay attention and keep a smile on my lips. I nod at the right moments, but my mind drifts back to Viktor and last night. I remember how that bead of sweat ran down his back—his perfect, muscular back—and his intricate tattoos. God, I'm obsessed. I pull myself back into the conversation, hoping I haven't missed anything important. Our drinks arrive, and we chat about college until our food comes. We fall into a comfortable silence while we eat. I ordered a small salad because I wanted to save room for dinner tonight. I enjoy having dinner with Viktor, even if he goes out of his way to annoy me.

After we finish our food, we each order a cocktail. Gwen then begins discussing her plans for Roman's house and some renovations she intends to make with his approval. He wants her to feel at home.

I listen half-heartedly and I think she can tell that I'm not really paying attention because she finally asks. “Thinking about Viktor?”

“What? No,” I say quickly, but I blush.

“You are. Come on, we're sisters now by marriage, but first and foremost, we are best friends. You can tell me anything.”

I'm about to answer her when my phone rings. I look at her apologetically and pick up my phone. Saved by the ringtone. Except it's Viktor who's looking for me. I glance at Gwen and then answer.

“Hello, Viktor.”

“Hello, Riley, hope you're having fun?” he asks.

“Yes, we are, thank you. What's up? Is everything okay?” I ask.

“Actually, I have plans for tonight, so when you get home, get showered and dressed. I'll meet you at the door.”

“Uh… okay,” I say hesitantly.

“I'll see you at six.” He hangs up, and I put my phone down.

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