Page 9 of Unexpected Bratva Baby

The rest of the morning flies by in a whirl of espresso shots and pastries. To my surprise, Juanita is noticeably kinder, even offering a rare word of praise for my latte art. As I wipe down the counter during a lull, I wonder about Mikhail and the effect he seems to have on people. Who is he, really? And why do I feel so drawn to him?

A few days later,I guide Masha through the lush park two blocks from the dog park. We’ve branched out and explored Brickell a bit more in the last several days. She doesn’t seem to mind her routine changing, and I figure Mikhail won’t be too irritated if he finds out.

We still stop at the dog park, but our visits are shorter. There’s still a general air of unwelcome directed toward me from the dog owners, and Masha seems to take or leave canine companionship, though she likes her golden retriever friend, Bach, when he’s there.

Today, her brindle coat gleams in the sunlight, and her one floppy ear bounces with each step. The park buzzes with activity. Joggers pounding the pavement, children shrieking with laughter on the playground, and other dog walkers chatting amiably.

A vibrant flyer catches my eye, its bold colors standing out against the community board’s weathered wood. I tug gently on Masha’s leash, and we pause to investigate. The flyer advertises amateur cooking classes at a nearby community center. “Oh,” I say aloud while reading more. They’re also recruiting instructors for a small stipend.

Images of steaming haggis, buttery shortbread, and rich Cullen skink dance through my mind. I dig through my bag, searching for my phone and quickly take a picture of the flyer. I’m already buzzing with ideas for Scottish cuisine lessons.

“What do you think, Masha?” I ask, scratching behind her ear. “Should I give it a shot?”

Masha’s tail wags in response, and I laugh. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

We continue our walk, the warm breeze carrying the scent of freshly cut grass and blooming flowers. Masha trots happily beside me, her nose twitching as she takes in the myriad of smells.

Suddenly, her fully functional ear perks up, and she begins to tug on the leash with newfound excitement. I stumble forward, caught off-guard by her sudden burst of energy. “Whoa, girl. What’s got you so worked up?”

I look up and forget how to breathe for an instant. Mikhail is jogging toward us, his muscular form glistening with a light sheen of sweat. He’s wearing form-fitting running shorts and a tight T-shirt that leaves little to the imagination. My cheeks flush taking in the sight of him.

He slows to a stop in front of us, wearing a broad smile. “Phoebe, what a pleasant surprise,” he says, his accent more pronounced as he catches his breath. “I didn’t know you and Masha came to this park.”

I tuck a stray strand of hair behind my ear, suddenly very aware of my own appearance—yoga pants and an oversized T-shirt, my hair thrown up in a messy bun. “Mikhail, hi. I didn’t expect tosee you here.” I shuffle awkwardly. “I hope you don’t mind me shaking up her routine a bit. She seems to like to explore.”

“No, but do make sure my security team knows your usual paths.” His tone leaves no chance for me to protest that edict. Not that I’d dare to anyway.

He crouches down to greet Masha, who’s practically vibrating with excitement. “Hello, my sweet girl,” he whispers, scratching her belly as she rolls over. “Have you been good for Phoebe?”

Watching their interaction, warmth spreads through me. Focusing on his fingers, the warmth isn’t just tender affection, and I have to swallow before I can speak. “She’s been an absolute angel. We’ve really bonded over these past few weeks.”

Mikhail stands to look at me. “I can see that. She’s made remarkable progress with you, Phoebe. You have a gift.”

His praise sends a thrill through me. “Thank you,” I say, ducking my head shyly. “I’ve always loved animals. They just... get me, you know?”

“It’s the same for me. They bring comfort where people often only bring pain.” His expression is thoughtful. “They have a way of seeing into our souls, don’t they? Cutting through all the pretense and seeing us for who we truly are.”

The depth of his words surprises me, and I sway slightly, drawn to the intensity in his voice and gaze. “Exactly.”

We stand there for a moment, the sounds of the park fading into the background. He clears his throat, breaking the spell. “I’ve been meaning to ask you something.”

My pulse quickens. “Oh?”

He runs a hand through his hair, and I’m struck by the gesture. It’s the first time I’ve seen him look anything less than completely composed. “I was wondering if you might like to go out sometime? On a proper date, I mean?”

My mind races. A date? With Mikhail? Part of me wants to jump at the chance, but doubt creeps in. He’s older, successful, and incredibly handsome. What could he possibly see in me? “I... I don’t know, Mikhail. Are you sure?”

His brow creases. “Of course, I’m sure. Why wouldn’t I be?”

I shrug, feeling small. “It’s just... You’re you, and I’m...me. We’re from different worlds. Different ages, even. Is it okay?”

He steps closer, resting his hand lightly on my arm. The touch sends sparks through my skin. “Phoebe, look at me.” I raise my gaze to meet his. “You’re kind, intelligent, and beautiful. Any man would be lucky to take you out. I’m just hoping I’m fortunate enough to be that man, as long as you don’t think I’m too old for you.”

His words wash over me, chasing away my insecurities. I look down at Masha, who’s watching us with her head tilted to the side. She gives a soft “woof” as if offering her approval.

I exhale raggedly and smile up at Mikhail. “No, age has little to do with someone’s ability to have a good time. I’d love to go on a date with you.”

His answering grin is dazzling. “Wonderful. How about Friday night? I know a lovely restaurant I think you’ll enjoy.”

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