AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I stare at Mario, stunned by his ultimatum. Take Sara's name and join her family? Abandon my own?
My heart sinks as I realize what that would mean. For years, I've shielded my younger brother Aleksandr from our father's criminal empire. I prepared myself to become the heir to the Bratva throne specifically to protect Aleksandr from that dark fate.
Aleksandr will be forced to take my place as the next Pakhan if I relinquish the Morozov name. My kind, gentle little brother, who loves art and poetry, will be molded into a ruthless gangster. The thought makes my blood run cold.
"Sir, I..." My voice falters as I struggle to find the right words.
Mario crosses his arms, glaring daggers at me. "Those are my terms. Take them or leave them."
I glance at Sara, who watches me with worried eyes. She knows how much my brother means to me and what this will do to him. I want to make this right for her and our child, but at what cost?
"Dimitri," Sara says softly, touching my arm. "It's okay Dimitri, you don't have to do this. We'll figure something out."
Her kindness only deepens my ache. She deserves so much better.
I take a deep breath and turn back to Mario. "May I have some time to consider your offer?"
Mario scoffs. "Time? You've had enough of that already. I want an answer now."
I hesitate only a moment before nodding. "Fine. I'll do it."
Sara squeezes my hand, "Are you sure? What about your brother?"
"You're mine, Sara. I must do this for you and the baby."
Lucia hugs us both.
Mario steps close to me, eyes still hard. "And you will pay the traditional bride price, to compensate for the dishonor. One million dollars."
My eyes widen slightly. It's not a steep sum, and Sara is worth any price. "Of course, sir."
"And the wedding must take place quickly," Lucia adds gently.
Mario nods curtly. "Make the arrangements today. I want this settled."
"I will," I assure him. I turn to Sara, brushing a loose hair from her face. "It seems we have a wedding to plan."
She smiles through her tears. I lean in and kiss her tenderly.
At last, Mario lowers the gun fully. There are still issues to resolve between our families, but for now, Sara is safe.
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
SARA
Inestle into Dimitri's strong embrace, comforted by his presence after the day's harrowing events. He runs his fingers gently through my hair as we sit on the bed. I feel my body finally relax, the adrenaline from earlier wearing off.
Looking around, I take in the details of Dimitri's bedroom. It's sparsely furnished - just the large bed, a dark wood nightstand, and a dresser. The walls are painted a deep shade of gray that makes the room feel cozy and intimate. Heavy curtains cover the window, blocking out the lights.
"How are you feeling?" he asks, his voice gentle.
I give a small shrug. "Still processing everything, I guess."
It's been a whirlwind few hours. After my father's chauffeur brought us here from the estate, I collapsed into bed almost immediately, emotionally and physically drained.
Dimitri insisted I rest while he handled things. I don't know exactly what he did after we arrived - made some phone calls, cleaned himself up. Now he's here, showered and changed into a t-shirt and sweatpants.
Dimitri has proven he'll protect me at all costs.
