Page 71 of Silent Ties

“This is coming from the brother who’s practically called it quits on the family business.”

He shrugs, not taking the bait. “I worried when you agreed to Dad’s plan because I know you. You always go along with every plan he puts out there.”

I don’t need one of Roma’s family rants right now.

“I agreed to help my family.”

“Russ is your family.”

Roma slides the plate of bacon toward the three of us, motioning for us to eat. I’m not in the mood for breakfastbut Dima sits down, no conversation ever affecting his appetite.

“This might be news to you,” Roma goes on, worked up. Elijah sits down, his movements stiff. “But you don’t have a magical cock, Maxim.”

Uncle Dima wipes his mouth with a napkin.

“Fuck your wife all you want,” Roma says, ignoring how I simmer. “But it’s not a cure all for a stable relationship.”

“Did you listen to a relationship podcast or something?”

He adds salt and pepper to his eggs. “You married Russ because you’re loyal to this family, but now you need to realize you have to be loyal to her.”

“You’re talking in fucking circles. I’m loyal to my wife.”

“I’m not talking about cheating. I’m talking about. . .” The right words don’t come to him.

“Growing together,” Dima supplies. He’s watched the men around him get married off for the better of the bratva. He’s watched couples strengthen their relationships and watched them make mistakes.

Around a forkful of eggs, Dima goes on. “Russet’s not dumb and she’s not afraid. Show her who you are, Maxie. Give her a chance to get to know you.”

She does.

“And in the meantime get to know her,” Elijah suggests.

I frown. “I do.”

The bastard leans forward. “What’s her favorite show?”

My fingers curl into fists.

“No more.” Dima holds up his hand.

Elijah smirks. “And for the love of God, fire that bitch Olga.”

I look at the three of them. “Can someone care to explain why everyone hates her?”

Roma’s face creases into disbelief. “You knowDad fired her right?”

“What?”

“She’s annoying,” he replies.

I turn to Uncle Dima.

“I’ve met with cartel lords easier going than that cunt.”

Christ.

“Let me guess,” Elijah says. “Your mother suggested you hire her.”

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