Page 32 of Surrogate for the Bratva
“Good. The wedding went off without a hitch, and the big boss is throwing me into the rotation to plan my own events.”
“That’s great, Kels. I’m happy for you!” It was just the kind of good news I needed to hear and focus on to forget about the shooting, about the sound of the glass shattering and the shouts of the diners.
“Yeah, thanks. Think your baby daddy will let you out for a celebratory dinner?” Her tinkling laugh was enough to trigger my own and that eased some of my anxiety.
“Probably not right now.” Considering recent events I doubted he would let me out of the house for anything other than doctor’s appointments. I didn’t want to worry her with what was going on in my life, so I decided to stay quiet about the shooting. “Maybe you can come here for dinner?”
“I guess that’s better than nothing. Are you okay April, I mean seriously?”
“I’m fine. Physically I’m doing as well as can be expected. Sick and uncomfortable.” I tried for a laugh, but it failed.
“And emotionally? Mentally?”
“Also as well as can be expected.”
Given the fact that I unwittingly agreed to be a surrogate for the head of Bratva currently engaged in a war with a man with a generations-old grudge.
“I’m sorry I haven’t called as much as I should, but things have been so busy with work, events and taking care of my new roommate. It’s always so late when I finally stop running,” Kelsie said.
“It’s okay. You have a life to lead and I’m happy for you. And grateful you’re looking after Jacob.”
“Of course I would. I mean he’s an asshole at times, but he’s your brother. And he’s not bad to look at so everybody wins.”
I rolled my eyes. “Thank you anyway, it means a lot.”
“I know something else is going on with you,” she sighed. “I just wish you would talk to me.”
“I’d love to, but I don’t want to involve you in this any more than necessary.” It’s why I kept the news of the shooting to myself. Why I hadn’t called my best friend or my brother. My life was in constant danger, and it always would be.
Not always,my conscience reminded me.This deal with Igor, his place in your life is temporary. When the baby is born, you’ll go your separate ways and never see each other again.
“Anyway sorry I’m such bad company today. I’m exhausted and uncomfortable. And pregnant.”
“Never apologize, April. What you’re doing to save your brother, shit it’s the stuff of movies. This selfless act, this sacrifice to save him,” she paused, choked up with emotion. “You’re allowed to feel any damn way you please.”
One tear fell down my cheek at Kelsie’s show of emotion. “Thanks. It’s been hard,” I admitted. “But I’m handling it,” I promised.
“You always do. You’re one of the strongest, most determined people I know April. But if you need to talk, to laugh or just to let off a little bit of steam feel free to call or text. I’m always up for shenanigans with my bestie.”
“Thanks but I’m not sure I’ll be up for any real shenanigans for the next few months.”
“Just call when you’re in the mood and I’ll figure out pregnant-lady appropriate shenanigans.” Her laughter faded. “Are you safe though? I mean like for real safe?”
“Yes,” I sighed. “There is security everywhere and they are armed and loyal.”
“Whoa,” she gasped. “That sounds alarming… and kind of hot.”
“Then I’ll make sure to see if it’s okay for you to come over so you can get an eyeful and knowing you, get yourself frisked.”
“Well damn, get on it, girl. Quick.”
“I will. I’m glad to hear your voice Kels.”
“Same. Don’t wait so long to call back. Remember the shenanigans.” She laughed again, the sound familiar and soothing. “Food’s ready, babe, gotta go.”
“Talk soon.” I felt better after talking with Kelsie, but I couldn’t shake off the shooting no matter how hard I tried. I’d only slept for an hour last night because each time I closed my eyes I was back in the restaurant. One minute I was teasing Igor over his nerves regarding fatherhood and the next was absolute chaos.
That night and the next it was more of the same. No sleep. Constantly reliving the shooting. It all amounted to barely any sleep, almost no appetite and a generally depressed outlook on my foreseeable future. I hadn’t left my room in three days, and I hadn’t seen Igor or anyone else but Maxim when he brought meals.
