Page 25 of Imperfect Desires

"No objection," I say quietly. “Yelena can marry first.”

He watches me for another beat, then sits back. "Good."

Yelena stretches lazily. "What’s the second piece of news?"

My father’s expression hardens slightly. "It’s time for Viktor to come home."

My eyes pop in surprise.

Yelena sits up straighter. "Seriously?"

My father nods once. “He has proven himself in New York. It’s time for him to take the lead here, too.”

A bright rush of warmth spreads through me.

It’s been too long since I’ve seen him. We’ve visited him in New York over the years, but it’s never been for long enough. He’s always been busy. Focused.

"Does Viktor know?" I ask.

"No."

"And what if he doesn’t want to come back?"

"He can’t refuse."

Yelena grins. The Bratva is about to undergo a makeover. I laugh, but there’s a hitch in my breath. Because if Viktor comes back…

Lev will come with him.

My chest tightens painfully. Yelena’s gaze flicks toward me. Her eyes sharpen slightly.

"Lev and Zasha will be here too? Or will Viktor inherit your right-hand man?" She asks casually. Although I know she is asking for my benefit.

“That will be his choice. But everyPakhanalways surrounds himself with those he trusts. Right-hand men do not come based on recommendations.”

We round up our meeting with Papa and head back to my room.

“This may be challenging for you,” Yelena says quietly.

I force my expression to stay neutral. "It doesn’t matter."

Yelena tilts her head. "Doesn’t it?"

"It’s been years."

"So?"

"I was nineteen. It was just a crush."

Yelena raises her eyebrow. "Really?"

"Yes."

Yelena’s lips curve faintly. "That’s funny because you looked ready to strangle Papa when he mentioned the marriage proposal."

I shoot her a glare. "That’s not why."

"Sure," Yelena says, amused.

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