Page 68 of Bratva Hostage

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Morning dawns with a sense of promise. My eyes open to find Cecily already up, rifling through her closet. She sets aside a simple yet elegant dress that’s totally different from the one she wore at our forced ceremony. It’s a floor-length gown in an ivory hue, with a softly draping skirt that flows from a narrow band around the waist. Delicate lace frames the cap sleeves and traces the neckline, a detail Cecily picked to contrast the heavy embroidery of the dress she once despised. There’s no excess beading or cumbersome train—just a timeless silhouette that showcases her natural grace and emphasizes how different this day truly is from the one we left behind.

I rummage through my suits and choose one that complements her selection. I want to appear polished but not intimidating. This vow renewal is about sincerity, not power.

Downstairs, the staff rushes about, ensuring everything is prepared. A few close friends arrive, offering early congratulations. My brothers station themselves in strategic spots to greet attendees as they filter in. Cecily and Seraphina vanish for a final check of the decorations while I speak with Grigor about minor logistical issues. None of it feels stressful; it feels purposeful, as if everyone understands how important this day is to Cecily and me.

At last, it’s time. The small cluster of guests—family, trusted associates, dear friends—gathers in the salon. Chairs line the space, and at the front, Aleksei stands in place, ready to officiate. Yes, we kept it in the family, preferring a personal touch. I wait at the aisle with my nerves jumping in a way that surprises me. Yet I wouldn’t trade this moment for anything.

Seraphina appears first, wearing a graceful purple dress with her son in tow carrying the pillow with the rings. She smiles, steps aside, and gestures toward the door. Then, Cecily steps into view, carrying Amara on her hip. My daughter is clad in a tiny dress that matches her mother’s, and she’s clutching a small bouquet. Cecily’s eyes lock with mine, and we share a look of mutual understanding. We’ve come so far, from that day of grudging vows to this morning of genuine devotion.

She passes Amara to Seraphina halfway down the aisle, then continues alone. I move forward to meet her, catching her hands in mine. Aleksei nods in approval as we stand facing each other. The hush in the room speaks of respect, and I realize I’m grinning like a fool.

Aleksei addresses the gathering, speaking briefly about how this vow renewal differs from our original wedding. Then, he invites Cecily to speak.

“Dimitri, the day we first said ‘I do’ was fraught with panic and fear. Today, I stand before you willingly, filled with love for the man who became my partner, protector, and ally. You taught me how to trust again and gave me the strength to become more than I ever believed possible. Today, I promise to keep building a life with you—a life of honesty, family, and respect.”

I swallow and turn my focus inward so I can muster my own vow. “Cecily, I once believed power was my only currency inthis world. Then you entered my life, forcing me to see beyond that. You showed me the value of genuine companionship. You challenged me, comforted me, and gave me a daughter I treasure above anything. Today, I promise to stand by you, not as a figure of control, but as a partner in every step. I choose you, always.”

We exchange simple rings we selected together. This time, no deals were made behind closed doors, no hidden motives or forced timelines—just a personal decision to commemorate what we’ve fought so hard to nurture.

Aleksei announces, “You have renewed your vows in front of those who matter most. May this be a lasting testament to your unity.” He nods. “You may seal it with a kiss, Brother.”

I draw Cecily close and kiss her softly. My heart feels as if it might burst from the enormity of what we’ve achieved. Our guests applaud in a chorus of goodwill that envelops us. When we turn, I see Seraphina holding a beaming Amara, Grigor smiling at both of them, and the rest of my brothers wearing expressions that range from pride to a hint of teasing amusement. It’s a family scene I never dared to dream of in my old life.

The reception that follows is a low-key affair, set up in an adjoining space. Tables hold an assortment of food, including some dishes that Cecily introduced after forging local business connections. We chat with guests, accept compliments about how far we’ve come, and watch Amara toddle around, enthralled by the swirling fabrics of people’s attire. Seraphina ensures the meal runs smoothly, assisted by staff who have grown loyal to Cecily’s leadership style.

Over plates of fruit and pastries, Cecily and I sit side by side. She leans against my arm, occasionally giving me anaffectionate nudge. “Two years. It feels like yesterday you were glaring at me from across a locked room.”

I chuckle, remembering how furious I felt each time she tried to defy my orders. “You challenged me in ways no one ever did. And I needed that. We needed that.”

She lifts a glass, beckoning me to join her. “To a future free from old grudges. And to us—making something worth protecting.”

I clink my glass against hers. “To us,” I echo.

We drink and let the flavors remind us that life can be sweet after so much bitterness. Then I notice my brothers motioning me over. I excuse myself from Cecily’s side, promising to return soon. She waves me off, teasing that she’ll keep an eye on our daughter before she wreaks more havoc among the table centerpieces.

“Everything is perfect,” Aleksei comments. “No disturbances, inside or out. We have watchers near the gates just in case.”

Akim nods. “Kovalev’s been quiet, presumably because he knows stirring trouble wouldn’t end well. So go enjoy your day.”

I appreciate their diligence. “Thank you. You know, I never could have pulled this off without all of you trusting me to shift the Barkov direction. It means more than I can express.”

Nikolai claps a hand on my shoulder. “You’re our brother. Our family stands together, especially when someone’s forging a path that benefits us all.”

Maksim gives a firm nod of agreement, then steps away, returning to his silent vigilance.

I rejoin Cecily, who’s crouched to help Amara with a tiny ribbon she found. Our daughter stares at the swirling color asif it’s the most magical thing in the world. Glancing up, Cecily smiles at me. “They let you go that fast?”

“Apparently, they want me to spend time with my wife on her vow renewal day.”

She grins, stands, and slides a hand through my arm. “If that’s the case, let’s mingle for a bit, then slip away. I want to hold you to your promise of a private celebration.”

Our eyes meet, and I nod with a smile so big it makes my face hurt. We move among the attendees, expressing gratitude for their presence. Seraphina corners me and hugs me tight, whispering that she’s never seen Cecily so radiant before Grigor shakes my hand.

Finally, after a few final polite conversations, Cecily and I fade from the main gathering, leaving our siblings and friends free to continue chatting. We step into a side hallway to lean against the wall to catch our breath. She glances around, confirming no one is watching.

She hooks her fingers in my belt, pulling me closer. “You ready to end this day on a high note?”

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