Page 28 of Unexpected Bratva Baby

The obvious solution is to bring Phoebe into my world fully, to surround her with guards and fortify her against Valdés’ attacks, but the thought of watching the warmth fade from her eyes as she learns the truth about me and the blood on my hands is unbearable.

I pace the office again. There has to be another way, a solution that keeps Phoebe safe without tainting her with the darkness of my world.

As the first rays of dawn break over the horizon, it hits me. I have to send Phoebe away. I can go with her while my trusted captains handle this situation. It will give us time to solidify our bond and ensure she’s fully in love with me before I have to reveal the truth.

I reach for my phone, fingers hovering over Phoebe’s number. Not yet. First, I need to make arrangements and create a cover story that she’ll believe. Something that will take her far away from Miami and far from Valdés’ reach.

The next afternoon,I stand outside Phoebe’s apartment door, hand poised to knock. The envelope in my other hand feels heavy, weighted with the lies I’m about to tell. I brace myself and rap my knuckles against the wood.

“Coming.” Phoebe’s muffled voice calls from inside.

The door swings open, and there she is. She’s wearing a pair of worn jeans and a faded T-shirt with a cartoon highland cow on it. My heart constricts at the sight of her.

“Mikhail?” She beams. “I wasn’t expecting you. Come in.” She looks behind me. “Where’s Masha?”

“Napping. I hope I’m still welcome even without her?”

She pouts and feigns that she’s considering it. “I suppose, but I prefer Masha come with you.” She winks and opens the door wider.

I step inside, feeling instantly peaceful in her small, cozy apartment just like every time I’ve been inside. It’s cluttered but homey, with Scottish memorabilia scattered throughout. The scent of cinnamon and apples hangs in the air. “I hope I’m not interrupting,” I say, glancing at the kitchen, where I can see a mixing bowl and ingredients spread out on the counter.

Phoebe waves her hand dismissively. “Just experimenting with a new recipe. Nothing that can’t wait.” She looks at the envelope in my hand curiously. “What’s that?”

I clear my throat, suddenly nervous. “I have a surprise for you.”

Her eyebrows shoot up. “A surprise? What kind of surprise?”

I hold out the envelope. “Open it and see.”

Phoebe takes it, brushing her fingers against mine. She tears it open, pulling out the contents. Her lips part in a gasp as she reads the plane tickets and itinerary. She looks up at me in disbelief. “Is this...are we going to Scotland?”

“First-class all the way.” I force a smile. “I’ve planned everything. Historic castle tours, advanced cooking classes with renowned Scottish chefs, and even a whisky tasting at a famous distillery.”

Her eyes fill with tears as she launches herself at me, throwing her arms around my neck. I catch her, holding her close and breathing in her scent.

“I can’t believe this,” she says, her voice muffled against my chest. “It’s like a dream come true.”

Guilt churns in my stomach. I stroke her hair, trying to keep my voice steady. “I wanted to support your passion, and I want to share this experience with you.”

Phoebe pulls back, still seeming stunned but thrilled. “You’re coming too?”

I nod. “Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

She kisses me then, her lips soft and warm against mine. I return the kiss, pouring all my conflicted emotions into it. When we break apart, she’s breathless and flushed.

“When do we leave?” she asks, excitement bubbling in her voice.

“End of the week,” I say. “I hope that’s not too soon. I know it’s short notice, but?—”

“It’s perfect. Except for my job…”

“Leave that to me.” I give her a charismatic smile. “I’m sure I can charm your boss into holding your position.”

She nods eagerly and hugs me again before stepping back. “Oh, I have so much to do. I need to pack, I need to arrange a back-up dog-walker for my other clients during my time away—” She stops suddenly, frowning. “Wait, what about your work? Can you really take time off so suddenly?”

I’ve prepared for this question. “I’ve arranged everything. My business can run without me for a few weeks, though I might have to do a little work on the trip.”

She studies my face, a hint of suspicion in her eyes. “Are you sure? You’ve seemed so stressed lately. Is everything okay?”

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