Page 33 of Plus-Size Curves for the Bratva

A woman with tear-filled eyes steps forward, her voice quivering. "Those were the most horrible months of my life until you came for us two weeks ago, Mr. Zolotov. I didn't think we'd ever…" She breaks off, overcome with emotion.

Two weeks ago?That's when Denis disappeared for a few nights before he came home battered and feverish. My heart pounds as the pieces start to fall into place.

Denis's demeanor softens, and he gently places a hand on her shoulder. "It's over now," he says, his voice low and soothing. "You're safe here. Try to focus on the present and the future. There's work to be done, and you all have an important part to play."

I watch, mesmerized, as Denis effortlessly calms the group. His words seem to have an almost magical effect, and soon the workers are nodding, wiping away tears, and returning to their tasks with renewed purpose.

As Denis guides me further into the vast space, my mind races. I turn to Denis, my curiosity piqued. "Denis, what did they mean by 'saving' them?"

His gray eyes meet mine, and for a moment, I see a flicker of something dark and dangerous in their depths. "It's a long story, Natalia. One I'm not sure you're ready to hear."

I square my shoulders. "Try me," I say, my voice steadier than I feel. "I want to understand, remember?"

He glances at me, his expression guarded. "Natalia, some things in this world are better left—"

"No," I interrupt, surprising myself with my boldness. "I need to know. These people, they're talking about when you vanished, aren't they? When you came home injured?"

Denis sighs, running a hand through his dark hair. "You're more perceptive than I give you credit for, Nat.”

I roll my eyes. “I know you’re deflecting, but I want to understand your world, Denis. All of it. That’s what you wanted for me too, didn’t you now?”

I hold Denis's gaze, my heart racing as I await his response. He breaks into a small, haunted smile and I can see his expression turn harrowed, as though he’s remembering something he wishes he didn’t have to.

Finally, he nods. "Very well," he says softly. "Mark and I… we received word of families being held captive by a rival group. Used as slaves." His jaw clenches, a flash of anger crossing his features. "We couldn't let it stand. There were teenagers in there. The weakest of our society, immigrants lied to and brought in, their passports seized. The conditions they were in, Natalia, are beyond reproach. Sick, starved, worked like dogs."

I gasp, my hand flying to my mouth. "That's horrible! So you…"

"We went in," Denis confirms, his voice low. "It wasn't easy. These people, they guard their 'property' fiercely." He spits out the word 'property' like it's poison. "But we managed to get them out."

I reach for his hand, squeezing it gently. "That's why you were hurt?"

He nods, a small, grim smile tugging at his lips. "A few scratches. Nothing I couldn't handle."

"And now?" I ask, gesturing toward the bustling dock around us.

"Now, we help them heal. Give them work, safety… a chance at a new life. They’ve been hired for our out-of-sight operations. It’s the only way I can ensure their safety. If they’re seen, they could risk being captured again," Denis's eyes soften as he looks at me. "It's not perfect, but it's something."

I feel a rush of emotions—pride, admiration, and a ton of shame for having misjudged him. "Denis, I… I was wrong about you. About all of this."

He raises an eyebrow, waiting for me to continue.

"I want to see it all," I declare, my voice stronger than I feel. "Your operations, your world. I want to know every aspect of it."

Denis studies me for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, slowly, a smile spreads across his face. "Are you sure? Once you step into this world fully, there's no going back."

I nod, my resolve firm despite the butterflies in my stomach. "I'm sure. Show me everything."

Chapter 14 - Denis

I pull up to the warehouse, the gravel crunching under the tires of my black SUV. Natalia's excited energy is palpable beside me, her curvy figure practically bouncing in the passenger seat. It’s infectious really. For the past two days, she’s been keen toseeeverything. Today, I brought her out to see a new operation—one that’s joint between our families.

"Ready to see where the magic happens?" I ask, switching the car off.

She squeals and claps her hands. "Oh, you bet. I can't wait to uncover all your secrets, Denis Zolotov."

I chuckle, shaking my head. "The question is, can you keep a secret?”

“Weeell,” she sings. “If it’s too juicy…”

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