Page 31 of Plus-Size Bratva Bride

I’m curious how trusting he is of me, giving me information and letting me visit his operations. If he was manipulating me in some way why would he take the risk?

I wish I could figure out how he thinks, which part of him is the real him.

***

We park outside a warehouse that looks just like all the other warehouses. From the outside there is nothing unique or eye-catching about the place.

On the inside—that is a whole different story.

I am shocked to see, from the moment I walk through those doors, just how organized and efficiently everything is running. And the people all look normal. They don’t look dodgy or greasy or like drug addicts. I don’t know why I expected them too. I have seen some of my brother’s operations and the guys working in there mostly look like they need a really good scrub and some lessons in manners.

“Good morning, sir, how are you today?” someone calls out from the work floor. I turn to see a younger man, maybe about twenty eight or so, walking towards us.

“I’m good, Sam. How’s the wife?” Radmir asks with a smile.

“Oh, she hasn’t stopped smiling, you know. Me either to be honest with you. We’re both so excited.” Sam reaches out and takes Radmir’s hand in a strong grip, shaking it while he speaks. “I just wanted to say, from the both of us, what you did—“ Sam chokes up a little and I scrunch my nose curiously. “What you did means the world to us.”

Rad laughs loudly and slaps Sam on the shoulder, a masculine but warm gesture. “Sam, there is no need to say anything. I hope that you and your new little family are nothing but healthy, happy and full of love.”

Sam nods, grinning, as he steps away from us.

“Wait, Sam, this is Jade. I’m showing her around the place.”

“Hi Jade, shout if you guys need anything,” Sam says, waving and nodding politely and then returning to his work.

“What did you do for him?” I ask once Sam is out of earshot.

“His wife was having a very complicated pregnancy and the doctors told her she might lose the baby. I booked her into a private hospital and organized one of the best doctors in the city to take care of her and deliver her baby. She stayed in the hospital with her baby another week and they all went home this past weekend. Healthy and happy.”

“You did that for him? Why?” I ask, stunned to find out that a murderer would be so willing to help someone else.

“Because my employees are like my extended family, Jade. These people are the backbone of my business and their happiness and health means a lot to me. The more I make, the more I can give back to them.”

“You want to give back to people?” I’m still confused.

Rad laughs. “What’s the point of making billions if you can’t change people’s lives for the better? The people we employ here come from all walks of life. A lot of them have had a really difficult time and have struggled. They deserve a good life. My family and I, we try to do whatever we can to help the people of this city who need it.”

He nods, satisfied with his explanations. “Now, follow me so I can show you how our shipments come in and out.” Rad walks off, confident and looking like the king of the world. Everyone greets him when he walks past, not just professional, not just a polite, obligatory greeting. They say hello with genuine warmth. I can see the respect and admiration they have towards him.

“Berton,” Radmir shouts, lifting his hand in the air to wave someone down.

An older man hurries over to him.

“I’m sorry I was in such a bad mood the other day, I hope you know it has nothing to do with you. You guys are doing a great job here.”

“Sheesh, sir, the look in your eyes was like the devil caught you.”

Radmir chuckles. “I was pretty annoyed about the break-in we had. But I see everything is running smoothly again and back to normal. I’m really impressed with how quickly you pulled that off. Thanks.”

“Ah, it’s really no problem, sir. Happy to see you smiling again today. Back to your usual self.” Berton grins and then seems to notice me for the first time. His brows shoot up.

Radmir turns to wrap his arm around my waist to drag me forward. His touch washes through my entire body like a river running over smooth rocks. I clench my jaw, desperate to ignore the heat building between my legs.

“Jade, this is Benton, one of the floor managers. Benton, this is Jade. I’m showing her around today.”

“Lovely to meet you, Miss. Jade.” He shakes my hand, leaving a black smear on my skin. “Oh my word, I’m so sorry.” He chuckles, handing me a cloth from his back pocket. “I’ve been working on the forklift’s engine.”

“It’s no problem.” I grin, starting to relax because every single person here is so friendly and so down to earth and welcoming.

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