Page 169 of Porcelain Lies

Her hand rests lightly on her stomach, as if subconsciously acknowledging the life growing within her. Our child. The thought sends a jolt through me.

I’ve kept people at arm’s length for so long; in my world, these things are necessary. But with Stella, those barriers waver. She challenges my control, stirs emotions I’d long since buried.

I watch as she moves, a small frown creasing her brow. Is she dreaming? A pang of guilt hits me when I think of how upset she was about Gianni. She shouldn’t have to feel that way. She shouldn’t have to deal with the bullshit that come with this world.

Resolute, I make a silent vow. I’ll eliminate the threats to my family, secure our future. Whatever it takes.

The weight of responsibility settles over me, but this time, it’s coupled with an unexpected warmth. Perhaps, with Stella and Bobik, there’s a chance for something more. Something beyond the cold dealings and calculated moves that have defined my existence my entire life.

But then again, perhaps a man like me doesn’t deserve it.

Chapter Fifty

Stella

It’s quiet.

I’m sprawled across the oversized bed, a book resting on my stomach as I stare up at the ornate ceiling.

The intricate patterns of the molding have become familiar over these past days, each swirl and curve etched into my mind. The soft rustle of pages fills the silent room as I turn to the next chapter.

A firm knock at the door pulls me back to the moment. I sit up, the book sliding to my lap.

“Come in,” I call out, smoothing a stray lock of hair behind my ear.

The door opens to reveal Aleksei, his tall frame filling the doorway. He’s dressed casually today — dark jeans and a crisp shirt with the sleeves rolled up, revealing the intricate tattoos that snake along his forearms. His eyes meet mine, a hint of something softer than his usual stern gaze flickering there.

“Am I interrupting?” he asks, his voice carrying that familiar Russian lilt.

I shake my head, closing the book and setting it aside. “No, just reading. Everything alright?”

He steps inside, the door clicking shut behind him.“Da.”He pauses, his gaze wandering around the room before returning to me. “I wanted to see how you are feeling.”

“Better.” I tilt my head, wondering what the real reason is behind his visit.

He nods, taking a few steps closer. “Khorosho. Good.”

There’s a moment of silence, an unspoken tension hanging between us.

“Is there something else?” I prompt gently.

Aleksei exhales softly. “I thought perhaps… it is time I introduce you to Bobik properly. Together.”

Surprise washes over me. “You want me to meet him? Like… officially?”

“Da,” he replies. “I believe it’s important we do this… as a family.”

The word ‘family’ hangs in the air, its weight heavy with implications. I search his face, trying to read the thoughts behind those dark eyes.

“I would like that,” I say softly.

A brief smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. “Khoroshiy. Then prepare yourself. We’ll go soon.”

I glance down at my casual attire — leggings and an oversized sweater. “Should I change?”

“As you wish,” he says, a hint of amusement in his tone. “Bobik won’t mind, but if it makes you comfortable…”

“I’ll be quick,” I assure him, rising from the bed.

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