Page 35 of Impregnated By the Bratva

Sighing, I lowered my head, staring into my cup for a moment.

“It’s just, well, I, I…,” I started, but stopped. Looking up at her, I could see she was waiting for me to continue. “I don’t know what to do with these feelings. I’ve come to a point where I think I’m falling for a violent man. I don’t belong in this world. My feelings are confusing. Everything is just upside down.”

Tasha pushed her plate aside as she leaned closer. “Look, life is difficult. That I know since I’m a Dubow,” she replied, grinning. “I’m used to the violence. Hell, I grew up with it, and so did Nadia. We were part of this world from a young age. Yet, I understand your struggles. But it’s only because you don’t know enough about our world. This can make things hard to accept. But it is something you can work through.

“Yes, I know. I guess so,” I responded, sitting back.

“Wait, let me tell you more,” Tasha said, raising her hands. She moved her chair closer to mine. Leaning in, she spoke softly. “The Vaselievs have a connection with the Chernykhs, whom they work for. Sometimes, they are forced to do things even if they don’t like them. It could be violent at times, but they have to comply for their own safety.”

“That’s ridiculous,” I responded. “Everyone has a choice to do things.”

“They aren’t like me. They don’t come from a Bratva family like the Dubows. They’re not like you. They didn’t have a normal life. The Vaselievs work for a Bratva family, the Chernykhs. They have a debt to pay off before they can break ties. Most of the time, they have no say in the kind of work they are asked to do. Do you understand?”

Nodding, I thought about everything she had shared before replying. “Yes, I think I now understand better. I wish it wasn’t such a dilemma.”

“In time, things might change. But you must give it time,” Tasha added, grinning.

“Well, thank you for the chat,” I said, checking my watch. “I have to run, or I’ll be late for this morning's closing. I stopped in the doorway and turned back, smiling at her. “Thank you, Tasha. Talk later,” I added.

“No problem,” Tasha responded, returning my smile. I headed upstairs and grabbed my back. Heading out, I pondered all she said. Maybe one day, things will be different.

Once I had seen my professors and seen everyone I wanted to, I headed to my dorm room to change. I knew I didn’t need to, but I wanted to just let my professors know I appreciated their time and effort. It was our graduation. I didn’t inform anyone as I didn’t want a fuss. I didn’t want to draw unnecessary attention.

I had no family left, and the only friends I had growing up lived in other towns. During my years at the University, I made two or three new friends, and they would all be with me for graduation.

Heading back to the university, I joined my class in the auditorium as we waited for it to start. The place was filled with parents and friends of everyone except mine. But it was the way I wanted things.

As the proceedings started, there were a couple of speeches before the certificate awarding started. I was almost last in line. As my turn came, I walked onto the stage, proud of my achievements.

Looking out at the crowd of people as I accepted my certificate, our eyes met. I was surprised to see Makari in the crowd. I felt a fluttering inside as he winked at me. Once everyone had received their certificates, we could leave the stage and join our families.

I walked through the crowd of people to where Makari stood waiting.

“Congratulations,” he said, holding out the flowers.

“Thank you kindly,” I replied, taking them from him before glancing at my feet as I swayed. I could feel the heat trying to cover my cheeks.

“How did you know?” I asked, astounded.

“Can I be honest with you?” he asked.

“Yes, please do,” I said, pulling my jacket tighter around me.

“Well, we’ve been keeping an eye on you. I also spoke to my professor friend this morning, and he told me it was graduation tonight. So, I wanted to be here for you.” Makari took my hand as he continued. “Walk with me and allow me to take you home?”

“Okay,” I said, walking with him through the door. The cool night breeze was refreshing on my hot skin.

“I wanted to congratulate you and ask if you’d go out with me on a date?” Makari asked as we walked to his truck.

Turning to him, I felt the smile crossing my lips and my cheeks heating up as I replied. “Thank you, for the second time, and I think that would be nice. Yes, I’ll go out with you.” The way he acted made me feel special.

“Excellent, how about tomorrow night?” he inquired, opening the door for me.

“That will be fine,” I responded, looking out the window.

Makari got in and drove me back to Vadik’s house without saying another word. Pulling up to the house, he exited the truck and quickly moved around to my side. Makari opened my door and walked with me to the house.

“Good night, Grace,” Makari said. “See you tomorrow evening?”

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