Page 38 of Innocently Captured By the Bratva

As we head to the venue, my mind races with the final details for Viktor and Elena's date. I've spent weeks planning this evening, determined to create the perfect atmosphere for these two high-profile clients. Mark sits uncharacteristically quiet beside me, giving me the silence I need to focus.

We arrive at the private estate, and I'm immediately in my element. The sprawling grounds are bathed in soft light, and the air is scented with jasmine and rose. I move through the space with purpose, checking items off my mental list as I go.

The table is set with crisp white linens and gleaming silver. A centerpiece of violets imported from Holland adds a touch of romance. Twinkling lights are strung overhead, casting a warm glow over the intimate setting. A string quartet plays softly in the background, its melodies mingling with the gentle murmur of a nearby fountain.

“Not bad,” Mark murmurs, his eyes scanning the space approvingly. “You really go all out for these things, don't you?”

I glance at him over my shoulder, a flicker of pride warming my chest. “Only the best for my clients. And for Viktor and Elena? They deserve nothing less.”

I lead Mark through the venue, explaining my process as we go. “It's all about creating the right mood,” I tell him, adjusting a place setting with a critical eye. “The lighting, the music, the little touches—they all work together to set the stage for romance.”

Mark listens intently, his gaze following my every move. “You make it look effortless, putting all this together,” he remarks, a note of admiration in his voice.

I flash him a smile, feeling a burst of satisfaction at his praise. “It's not effortless, but it's worth it. When I see my clients connecting, really falling for each other? That's what makes it all worthwhile.”

As the appointed hour draws near, I discreetly take my position, Mark at my side. We watch as Viktor arrives, looking dashing in a tailored suit. He seems nervous, fidgeting with his cufflinks as he waits for Elena.

But the moment she steps into view, all of Viktor's anxiety melts away. His jaw goes slack, his eyes widening as he takes in her beauty. Elena is a vision in a flowing red gown, her dark hair cascading down her back in soft waves.

“I've never seen him look like that,” Mark murmurs, leaning in close. “He's completely smitten.”

I nod, a thrill of satisfaction coursing through me. This is what I live for—the magic of two people connecting on a deeper level.

As Viktor and Elena take their seats, I keep a watchful eye on the proceedings closely. The waitstaff move like ghosts, materializing only to pour champagne and deliver each perfectly timed course before fading into the background once more. The string quartet plays on, its music swelling with each shared laugh and lingering glance between the couple.

“You're really diligent,” Mark observes, his voice low and warm. “The fact that you’re hiding out here just in case you’re needed until the date comes to its completion... It's impressive, Quinn.”

I glance at him, surprised by the sincerity in his tone. For a moment, I'm caught off balance, unsure how to respond. But then I smile, letting his words wash over me like a gentle wave.

“Thank you,” I murmur, holding his gaze. “That means a lot, coming from you. All I’ve seen you do is work. No one works half as hard as you do.”

“Really?” he raises his eyes in surprise. “I felt the same about you all this time.

We lapse into a comfortable silence, watching as Viktor and Elena lose themselves in conversation. They lean towardeach other, hands brushing, eyes locked. Their chemistry is palpable, a living, breathing thing.

For a moment, everything else fades away—the stress, the long hours, the constant pressure to be perfect. All that matters is this: two people falling in love and the knowledge that I helped make it happen.

As Viktor and Elena's laughter rings out across the venue, Mark turns to me, curiosity glinting in his eyes. “So, why her? Why choose Elena for Viktor?”

I take a breath, considering my words carefully. “Elena is more than just a pretty face. She's an independent heiress with a successful fashion label. She's driven, passionate, and unafraid to pursue what she wants. Besides, she’s already pledged 80% of her wealth to charity. There’s no doubt she’s here to create a better world, not swayed by material goods.”

Mark nods, a flicker of admiration crossing his chiseled features. “Sounds like a perfect match for Viktor. He needs someone who can keep up with him, challenge him, show him that businesses can do good.”

“Exactly,” I agree, my gaze drifting back to the couple. They're completely engrossed in each other, oblivious to the world around them. “But it's not just about finding someone with complementary qualities. It's about creating a genuine connection, a spark that can grow into something real and lasting.”

Mark shifts beside me, his shoulder brushing mine. “And you think they have that? That spark?”

I nod, feeling a rush of conviction. “I do. I wouldn't have brought them together otherwise.”

He falls silent, studying me with an intensity that sends a shiver down my spine. “You really believe in this, don't you? In love, in a happily ever after.”

I meet his gaze head-on, refusing to back down. “I do. I’ve seen it with my parents. I’ve seen love blossom all around me.”

My mind drifts to my distant uncle, to the lessons he taught me about the power of human connection. “My uncle always said that love is the greatest gift we can give or receive. That it has the power to heal, to transform, to make us better than we ever thought possible.”

Mark's expression softens, a hint of understanding flickering in his eyes. “You sound like you were close to your uncle.”

“I was,” I murmur, a bittersweet smile tugging at my lips. “He's the reason I started this business, the reason I'm so passionate about what I do. He told me to chase my wildest dreams. ‘Life’s too short, Kid. Don’t take any regrets with you to the grave’.”

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