Page 61 of His Queen

"I agree. So I need you to rest until then. We will plan the best we can and start the primary plan of getting families to safety. I have the guards already on it."

I nod and close my eyes. "Wake me when we are home."

Once we were back on the ground, I extended my hand to help Rose to her feet. Placing my hand on her lower back, I guided her gracefully from the plane. At that moment, the warmth of her skin reminded me she was indeed by my side once again. A surge of hope filled my heart, longing for her to stay with me forever.

As we made our way back to Demetrius’s compound, a comfortable silence enveloped us. I couldn’t help but admire her, finding joy in simply gazing at her and feeling her presence. Every time she looked at me, it was as if she had the power to steal my breath away.

"Vlad, how are we going to handle my father? How are we going to handle this? Is there a plan?"

I shake my head. "Kind of … Not yet. But don't worry, we will. You are safe with me and nothing will happen to you. At the moment, we are getting all the innocents clear of the war that is bound to happen. We might have a couple of days to heal, but it won't be much more than that."

"I trust you, Vlad. You and Demetrius both. You saved me and protected me. But I know my father and he is more ruthless than he ever was when I was growing up. I worry about what he might do."

“I understand, my love. Once we return to the compound, we’ll have a thorough discussion about everything. It’s crucial that we stick together. Luna has a secure room specially designed for her safety. We’ll collaborate as a team to devise a plan, and afterward, it’s essential that we prioritize rest and healing as much as we can before this takes place.”

No matter what happens, I have to make sure that Rose is safe. That's all that matters to me right now. My Queen has been through enough. She needs to rest. We all do.

"If my father dies, who will be in control, then?"

I hadn't thought about it, but that would make her the leader technically.

"I am not sure." I say thoughtfully, "If they follow tradition, it should be you." I turn and look at her.

She doesn’t appear surprised, but it’s hard to gauge her true emotions. Her expression is pensive, with her mind seemingly deep in thought. I’m unsure of what she’s contemplating or how she will respond. The implications for her and the family remain uncertain. Will the rest of the family follow her lead?

"Rose, it doesn't matter. Either way, we are going to keep you safe."

She nods "I know. But if I can get my father's second-in-command on my side. It might change the way things are done. We could truly have peace between the two sides and put an end to these monstrous acts. This city could finally have true peace."

I nod. I see where she is going, but I have to wonder if she knows just how long of a road that could be. It could take a very long time to get everything sorted. But it really would be the best outcome. It would save many lives now and in the future. I can't even imagine this city with true peace.

"That would be the best outcome. It could save many lives, but you have to know how long it would take to get everyone on the same page. The Bratva included. Even though Demetrius has already changed many things. Not everyone agrees. But...." If we can pull this off, it really would be best for everyone. Us included. Our children would be free to live in peace, and being together would cement it all in place. Thinking of having a family with Rose makes my chest ache with need. A need I didn't even know I had. "Do you think Aldo will go for it?" I can't help but be hopeful.

She gazes out of the foggy window, lost in deep contemplation, as I patiently await when her thoughts converge. The cool breeze whispers through the cracks, carrying with it the scent of rain-soaked earth. My beautiful Rose reunited at last. Her fiery spirit resonates, despite the shadow of sadness that lingers from the torment she endured. Yet, time does not permit us to dwell on it now. I know that eventually, it will catch up to her. But at this moment, we must press on together. Our bond is unbreakable, and I vow to never release her grasp.

She is mine.

Chapter 40

Rose

Ineveronceconsideredthe consequences if my father were to be killed. The thought of it never crossed my mind. However, now I wonder if Aldo, my father’s confidant, will support me through this ordeal. Although I sensed his disapproval of the situation, it doesn’t mean he wouldn’t desire it for himself. The way he and Lena exchanged glances did not escape my notice. Is there something more than meets the eye between them? While it would be convenient if there were, that’s not the primary concern at the moment. What I need to do first is talk to her and address the matter at hand. The rest can wait until later.

"Vlad."

"Yes, my love?"

"We need to talk."

"Okay." He says, hesitantly.

"About the future. About us. About all of it."

"Ok, my love, tell me."

"I think Lena, my stepmother, as odd as that is, was also forced into the same situation my father put me in. We never spoke about it outright. I need to speak to her. See if maybe she would help from the inside with information. She could help us figure out the right moment to strike. It could be a long process, but if she is on board, we have an advantage."

"If it means saving her from being mistreated, I can understand that. She could be a valuable asset."

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