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"Okay, spill it," I say, pushing myself up on an elbow to look him in the eyes.
He meets my gaze, a softness, a newfound vulnerability filling his eyes. "We need to get approval from the Bratva to leave, and it's not guaranteed," he says. There's a pause, an unfinished sentence hanging there.
"And?" I prompt, raising an eyebrow. I've faced down some of Moscow's fiercest fighters. Cryptic hints don't stand a chance.
He chuckles, probably at the stubborn set of my jaw. "It's not just that, Ana." The pause is longer this time, and I wait patiently. "There's something else I've been considering, but I'm not sure how to bring it up."
Curiosity piqued, I sit up. "You've got my full attention, so out with it."
He seems to take a moment, searching for words. Then he deflects. "How about this? We get dressed, head out for dinner, and discuss everything there. It's been too long since we had a nice night out. A celebration for your recovery. We could both use it."
His tactic doesn’t completely fool me. He’s trying to shift the conversation, probably to buy himself time to figure out how to approach whatever’s on his mind. But I can’t deny that the prospect of a night out, especially after being confined to a hospital room and this penthouse, is tempting.
I ponder his offer, looking for any hint in his eyes, then sigh. "Alright, but only if it's somewhere fancy. I've been living in hospital gowns and sweatpants for damn near two months. I want to wear something that makes me feel like a woman again."
His smile broadens, revealing that mischievous spark I've come to adore. "You've got yourself a deal."
Chapter 31
Samuil
Lavish wooden panels and art pieces depicting Russian folklore surround me. Seated in an old leather chair, I wait, every muscle taut. The anticipation builds with each ticking second from the grand clock that dominates one wall.
Andrei and Sandra make their entrance, and their presence immediately fills the room. Both have a distinct air of authority; Andrei's frame exuding power, and Sandra, with a hidden grace that clashes with the sharp edge she’s known for.
"Samuil," Andrei greets, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.
"How is Ana recovering? We haven't seen her since she left the hospital," Sandra inquires, her gaze unwavering.
Andrei’s stern face betrays a hint of concern as he adds, "She's been through a lot. The Bratva owes her."
I nod, the memories from her time in the hospital flashing in my mind. "She's tough, as you both know. Every day, she's regaining strength. The scars run deep, but she's healing, both physically and mentally. The penthouse gym has been invaluable to her recovery. She’s been training, slowly getting back to her old self."
Sandra's lips curve into a slight smile. "That's good to hear. She's got a fire in her, that one."
Andrei nods in agreement, "Always knew she was a fighter. When she’s ready, tell her the Bratva awaits her return."
"We all do," Sandra adds, her tone sincere.
I nod respectfully. "I trust you've been keeping well?"
Andrei takes a deep breath, his eyes piercing. "We've had our hands full with Radu and his antics. We've got our best on him, watching his every move. He's currently out of the city, laying low. What's more intriguing is that his family isn’t with him. Seems they didn't take kindly to his business tactics."
Sandra cuts in, her voice chilly, "The man's digging his own grave. But I’m guessing we have bigger matters to discuss." Her piercing gaze meets mine, her nod subtle but meaningful. "What brings you here?"
Clearing my throat, I lean forward. "It's about Ana and our future. With everything that's happened, we’re thinking it's time for a fresh start." I let the implication hang in the air, their eyes probing for more.
Andrei's brow furrows. "Are you saying you want out?"
Sandra's voice carries a note of caution. "Choices have consequences, Samuil."
Drawing a deep breath, I choose my words carefully. "No. I don’t want out. What I'm saying is that I want to commit more deeply to the Bratva. I believe we can make it even stronger. With Ana by my side, with our combined skills and determination, we can be an even greater asset."
Andrei leans back, surprise evident on his face. "You want to stay and expand our influence?"
Sandra observes me closely, looking for any sign of insincerity. "Why? Why now?"
"The challenges with Radu, the dangers Ana faced... they’ve only solidified my belief," I say with conviction. "Our strength, our unity, they’re unmatched. Leaving now would mean turning our backs on a legacy. On family. And I can't—we can’t—do that."
