Page 59 of Unexpected Bratva Baby

Sergei nods and leaves to carry out my instructions. I’m left alone with my thoughts. My mind drifts to Phoebe again, and I wonder what she would think if she could see me now, orchestrating the downfall of rival crime lords. The contrast between my two lives has never been starker.

My phone buzzes again with another message from Phoebe. She’s wondering when I’ll be home. I close my eyelids, savoring the image of her waiting for me even as guilt twists in my gut.

“Soon, this will all be over, and I can focus on building a life with you.” Even as I say it aloud, I know it’s not that simple. The world I inhabit doesn’t let go easily. There will always be new threats, but all I can do is prepare for them.

21

Mikhail

Istep into the penthouse, my body heavy with lethargy but mind buzzing with the thrill of victory. The operation was a resounding success, and The Corporation lies in ruins. I shrug off my jacket, spotting Phoebe on the balcony with Masha.

She turns at the sound of my approach, looking relieved and concerned. “Mikhail, you’re back.” She crosses the distance between us in quick strides, wrapping her arms around me as Masha presses against my legs in greeting.

I pull her close, breathing in the familiar scent of her shampoo. “I am. I’m sorry for worrying you.”

She leans back to look up at me. “Are you all right? You look exhausted.”

“I’m fine,” I say, managing a small smile. “Just tired. It’s been a long few days.”

She nods. “I’ve got dinner waiting. You must be starving.”

I allow her to lead me to the table on the balcony, where a spread of my favorite Russian dishes awaits. The sight and smell of the food remind me how long it’s been since I’ve eaten properly.

We sit down to eat, and Phoebe is a soothing balm to my frayed nerves. I just watch her, amazed at how she’s become such an integral part of my life in such a short time.

“Mikhail? Are you listening?” Her voice breaks through my thoughts.

I blink, focusing on her face. “I’m sorry,lyubov moya. What were you saying?”

She smiles, reaching across the table to take my hand. “I was just asking if everything went okay with your plan?”

I squeeze her hand gently. “It did. Better than okay, actually. We’ve dealt a significant blow to our enemies. The city will be safer now.”

She nods, seeming relieved but still troubled. “I’m glad. I just worry about you. This life you lead is so dangerous.”

“I know,” I say softly. “And I’m sorry for putting you through this. You deserve better.”

She shakes her head firmly. “Don’t say that. I knew what I was getting into when I chose to stay with you. I love you, Mikhail.”

Her words fill me with warmth that has nothing to do with the food or the balmy Miami night. Suddenly, I know what I have to do. I’ve waited too long as it is. I stand up, scraping my chair against the balcony floor.

Phoebe looks up at me, confusion evident. “Mikhail? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong,” I say, moving around the table to stand before her. “Everything is right, for the first time in a long time.” I reach into my pocket, closing my fingers around the small velvet box I’ve been carrying for weeks. Taking a deep breath, I lower myself onto one knee.

Phoebe’s eyes widen as her hand flies to her mouth. “Mikhail...”

I open the box, revealing the emerald ring nestled inside. The deep green stone catches the light, reminiscent of the Scottish highlands Phoebe loves so much. My voice is steady despite the nerves fluttering in my stomach. “When you came into my life, I was a man living in shadows, consumed by duty and obligation. You brought light into my world and showed me there was more to life than power and control.”

I take her hand in mine, wondering at how small and delicate it feels. “Our journey hasn’t been easy. We’ve faced dangers and obstacles that would have torn apart lesser couples, but you’ve stood by me and supported me even when I gave you every reason to run.”

Her eyes glisten with unshed tears, but she remains silent, letting me continue.

“I can’t promise you an easy life. My world is dangerous, and there will always be threats to face, but I promise I will love you, protect you, and cherish you for as long as I draw breath. I will strive every day to be the man you deserve, and to build a future with you that’s filled with love, trust, and partnership. Phoebe MacKenzie, will you do me the extraordinary honor of becoming my wife?”

For an instant, the world seems to hold its breath. Then Phoebe’s face breaks into a radiant smile. “Yes,” she whispers, then louder, “Yes, Mikhail, I’ll marry you.”

Joy surges through me when I slip the ring onto her finger. It fits perfectly, and the emerald glows against her skin. I stand, pulling Phoebe into my arms and capturing her lips in a passionate kiss.

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