Page 35 of Shared By 3

The proposal was easy comparatively. I was certain for so, so long that I’d never get married, that marriage ruined people. That couples couldn’t come back from that kind of thing. My hands shake. Of course, having three mafia men in my life means them catching on to my tells quickly.

I play with my rings, making sure they’re perfect on my fingers.

I chose them. They didn’t force me into this. They make me happy. They support me, respect my career, my intelligence, they build me up. They’re not my father. I’m not my mother.

I wish my mother was coming.

The thought kicks me in the heart. Even though I don’t need her or her approval, even though I know she won’t give approval, I wish she’d support me in this. Being happy isn’t enough in her eyes, though.

“Valerie,” Chase says.

I look up at him as Hunter takes my hand. Hunter doesn’t look at me, but I know I have his attention. Chase clears his throat. “Baby doll, is there something bothering you?”

“What could be bothering me?”

“Tristan ... he told us you might be hesitant to get married. Not because of us, but because of ...” Chase clears his throat.

“Your parents, dorogaya. You know we’re not them,” Hunter whispers, squeezing my hand. “Not to mention if we ever raised our voices at you, you could inflict psychological damage that would leave us crying in a corner.”

“I’d never!” I argue. “I wouldn’t do that to-”

“She’d just use the knife,” Lief says.

“Or deny us sex, kisses, and attention. Remember when she was finishing her dissertation?” Chase chuckles. “We were a mess.”

“I won’t do that because we’re good at talking ... usually. And you three don’t yell at me or get aggressive in the wrong ways,” I mumble. “You’re good to me.”

“I’m glad to hear that, baby doll. Sounds like you need some spoiling.” Chase kisses just under my ear.

Lief’s foot brushes mine and I take a slow breath.

These men aren’t my father. They’re lethal, powerful, can be immature, but they’re good for me and they’re good to me. Both of those things matter. Hunter has worked hard at getting better. Chase is coming into his confidence and into his own. Lief is reliable, warm, and consistent.

After a few more deep breaths, I manage an even smile. “And you three are sure I’m good enough for you.”

Hunter and Chase snort and Lief smiles. “You’re better than any of us dreamed, pet. Vicious, gorgeous, determined.”

“Sexy as hell, smarter than anyone I’ve ever met and so damn ambitious,” Hunter agrees.

“You’re the perfect mix of soft and lethal,” Chase growls.

Oh, and now we’re headed down the wrong path considering I can feel lust nearly choking me. I take another few breaths. “Are you sure your parents approve of me?”

“I’m convinced you’re the only woman our father would actually respect,” Hunter says seriously before kissing my lips. “Even if he knows, you’re far too good for us.”

“And our mother adores you,” Chase assures me.

“You text my mother and my father has never been so eager to make family plans,” Lief agrees.

“And Tristan likes you three.” I nod. “We’re going to be fine.”

“You should be more worried about Sophia sticking you with the baby all night to dirty dance with her husbands,” Hunter says, chuckling.

We keep teasing each other until we get to the gorgeous restaurant. Vanya squeezes my hand tightly, then hugs Chase. She and Hunter have been doing better with counseling, but they’re not at the hugging point yet. Hunter nods to her, and she rubs his arm.

“I’m so proud of my boys, choosing the best woman they could have,” Vanya gushes.

I blush, and Mr. Volkov clears his throat. “I won’t be staying long, but ... congratulations.”

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