"I know." Her voice is barely above a whisper. "But I can't stop thinking about what could happen. If my father realizes I've been helping Andrey, if he finds out I betrayed him…"
I squeeze her hand harder. "You didn't betray anyone. You escaped a monster who hurt you. There's a difference."
She doesn't look convinced, but she nods anyway, her throat working as she swallows hard. The guilt is eating her alive, and I wish I knew how to make it better. But I don't. All I can do is sit here and remind her that she's not alone.
The sound of boots on marble floors draws my attention. Andrey appears in the doorway, dressed in dark tactical gear that makeshim look even more dangerous than usual. His pale eyes sweep the room, landing on me first before shifting to Sophia.
"We're leaving in ten minutes," he says, his voice calm and controlled. "Stay inside until we return."
I stand, crossing the room to him. "Be careful."
His hand cups my face, his thumb brushing along my cheekbone. "Always."
Then he leans down and kisses me, slowly and possessively, like he's claiming me one more time before walking into danger. When he pulls back, his gaze drops to my stomach and the baby bump, proof of the life we created together.
"Both of you stay safe," he murmurs.
"We will."
He nods once, then turns and leaves without another word. I watch him go, my chest tight with worry and the terrifying realization that I can't imagine my life without him anymore.
Sophia stands and moves to the window, her arms wrapped around herself as she watches the men prepare to leave. "I should have done more," she says quietly. "I should have fought harder when I was there. Maybe if I'd been braver?—"
"Stop." I move to stand beside her, my tone firm. "There was nothing you could do. Your father is a piece of shit. He only wanted you for how you could improve his wealth and empire. Once he realized Andrey had married me and all his hopes for combining their two families were out the door, he showed his true colors. Instead of being there for you and your feelings, he kicked you out without a second glance. He's a total shit."
She doesn't respond, just stares out at the courtyard where Andrey is speaking with several of his captains. His posture is relaxed but alert, his hands gesturing as he gives final instructions. Even from here, I can see the authority in every movement, the way his men listen without question.
He's magnificent. Dangerous and ruthless and completely in control.
And he's mine.
The thought sends heat through me despite the anxiety churning in my stomach. I press my hand against my lower belly, feeling the faint flutter of nausea that's been my constant companion for weeks. But it's lighter today, less overwhelming. Maybe the morning sickness is finally passing.
The convoy begins moving, SUVs pulling away from the garage in a coordinated line. I watch until they disappear through the main gates, then turn away from the window with a sigh.
"I need to move," I say suddenly, the nervous energy building inside me too strong to ignore. "I can't just sit here waiting."
Sophia looks at me, her expression concerned. "Are you sure? You've been sick?—"
"I feel better today." I head toward the door, already planning. "I'm going for a run. Clear my head."
"Mariya—"
"I'll stay on the grounds," I promise. "The guards will be with me. I just need to do something or I'm going to lose my mind."
She hesitates, then nods. "Okay. But be careful."
I change quickly into leggings and a loose tank top, pulling my hair back into a high ponytail. The morning air is cool when I step outside, carrying the scent of flowers and freshly cut grass. Two guards fall into step behind me, keeping a respectful distance but close enough to intervene if needed.
I start slow, letting my body adjust to the movement. It's been weeks since I've done any real exercise, the morning sickness and constant stress making it impossible. But today feels different. My stomach is settled, and my energy is higher than it's been in days.
I pick up the pace, my boots hitting the gravel path with steady rhythm. The estate grounds stretch out around me, manicured gardens giving way to wilder areas near the outer fence. I follow the path that circles the property, breathing deeply as my muscles warm and stretch.
For the first time in weeks, I feel almost free.
The guards maintain their distance, professional and unobtrusive. I can hear their footsteps behind me, the occasional crackle of their radios, but they don't interfere. They know I need this space, this moment to feel like myself again.
I round a corner near the eastern fence line, where the trees grow thicker and the landscaping becomes less controlled. The path narrows here, winding between old oaks and dense brush. It's one of my favorite sections of the property, quiet and secluded.
