Page 14 of Impregnated By the Bratva

“Alright, then,” I said. “Would you like something to eat before settling in?”

“No, I’m fine,” she replied, sounding distant.

“Okay. Give me a minute, and then I’ll take you up to your room,” I added as I stepped back from her.

“Sure, take your time,” Grace replied as I turned and headed out.

Moving outside to grab her bag from my truck, I felt my phone vibrating in my pocket. Pulling it out, I noticed it was Avgust, the second eldest sibling of the Chernykhs.

“Hi, Avgust,” I said, putting the phone to my ear. “How can I help you today?”

“Pavel, let us know if there was a change to the plan. Explain yourself, and it better be good!” he grumbled. I could hear his impatience coming through.

“Slow down, Avugst, I’ve got this. The witness is here with us. She can identify the man from the shootout. In exchange, I offered her protection until the situation at hand is dealt with.”

“Yes, yes, yes,” Avgust spat back at me. “My concern is that she is going to report us to the cops.”

“No, Avgust,” I assured him, keeping my tone even. “She won’t. I promise you that. She is scared to death and won’t go near the cops.”

“How can I believe that? What kind of fool do you take us for?” he asked. I could hear the irritation now clearly in his tone.

“Avgust,” I replied, sighing. “I promise she won’t report us. Have I ever let you down?”

There was a moment of silence before he spoke again. “Ok, but if she does, you promise me you will take her out. If you think there is the slightest possibility that it is going the wrong way, you take care of business. Promise me that, Makari!”

Shaking my head, I swallowed hard. I knew this would be one of the hardest missions we have ever done. “Yes, Avgust,” I replied. “I will ensure everything is handled properly.”

The phone line went dead. Staring at the screen, I wondered why he called and not Iosif. But I knew we couldn’t afford her going to the cops. It would not only put her in more danger but us as well.

Opening my truck door, I grabbed her bag and headed back in. I would figure something out. I knew I would. Walking up the stairs, I decided to put Grace in the room next to mine. I placed her bags next to the bed before leaving to fetch her.

“Grace,” I said, entering the lounge. She turned, smiling softly at me. “Come with me; let me show you to your room,” I added, holding out my hand. She walked over and took my hand. Her skin was so soft, and her touch warm. I found myself enjoying holding her hand as I led her upstairs.

“Here we are,” I said, stopping by the door. “This is you, and I’m right next door if you need something. You can call on me anytime.”

Grace walked to the middle of the room and stood for a moment, looking around. Before her was a big double bed with two bedside tables. To the one side was the vanity, a built-in cupboard, and to the other, a door leading to the en-suite bathroom.

“If you need anything, Grace, like I said, don’t hesitate to ask,” I repeated.

Turning to me, she smiled. “Thank you, but I’m really fine,” she said.

“Okay, can I help you unpack?” I asked.

Turning her gaze down, I noticed her cheeks lighting up as she blushed. “No, thanks, I got this,” she replied softly. “I know where to go and can see the bathroom through that door.” Turning and pointing, she continued, “And this is obviously the closet. I’m fine, see.”

Stepping closer, I just wanted to reach out and hold her. She looked so sad. I could hear it in her tone as well. I was tempted to touch her but knew I shouldn’t. Lifting my hand to wipe the tear down her cheek, I turned and headed for the door. “Alright then,” I grumbled. “Supper will be ready soon.”

Pulling the door behind me, I stood for a bit, breathing deeply. Avgust words kept mulling in my mind. I had to stay busy, so I wouldn't ponder too much. As I entered the kitchen, Pavel looked up. He was already preparing supper. “Can I help with anything?” I inquired.

“Really,” he spat at me, slamming the knife down on the counter.

“Pavel,” I said. “There’s no need for such hostility.”

“You’re making a mistake, Makari,” he insisted.

“Let’s leave that for now. Come on, relax. We need to get supper ready. We can talk in the morning, okay?” I replied, raising my brows.

He shook his head, picked up the knife, and continued cutting the vegetables without another word. Once supper was done, I set the table and went to call Grace. She was standing by the window again, staring out. All her things, including the bag, seemed to be packed away.

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