Page 22 of Bossed Around By the Bratva

I had to bite back the laughter. I had no idea where she was coming up with this stuff. Smiling, I shook my head. “That’s quite a mouthful coming from a pedestal princess,” I shot back at her.

She lifted her finger to my mouth. I felt a tingling sensation run through me as she proceeded to move lightly over my lips. She kept her eyes locked on mine as she moved down my neck. Once she got to the middle of my chest, I felt her nails lightly digging in.

Swallowing hard, I tried to calm my throbbing dick, but there was no hope as she started dragging her nails down my body. She stopped just above the top of my pants. As she grabbed hold of the top, I gasped.

Zhen gently pushed me back against one of the shelves. My mind was running at the speed of light as wild thoughts came and went. It felt like she had me by the balls, and I would follow any command she gave. I had lost all control, and she had become my master.

“This pedestal princess knows how to take care of herself,” she breathed out over my lips. Her sassiness could clearly be heard in her tone. Letting go of my pants, she lightly tapped my nose before walking past me. Turning, I watched as her hips swayed.

“Stop,” I managed to get out before she left.

Zhen turned, glaring at me.

“Come with me to an estate party, most of our clients will be there. But before you say no, just think about it, as you were the brains behind most of our latest projects,” I said in a begging tone.

“I don’t know about that,” Zhen breathed out. “I don’t think I’ll be any good at such events.”

Her answer wasn’t the one I wanted or expected. I wanted to get to know her better. I had to. Sighing, I shook my head as I decided to guilt her into going.

“Nope,” I said, stepping closer. “That won’t work. I want to show off the brilliant mind behind the latest projects. So, you kind of have to be present. Besides, you worked so hard. You deserve a break.”

Zhen groaned lightly before nodding in agreement. “Great,” I said, heading past her to the door. I’ll send a driver to pick you up around seven.”

Stopping at the door, I turned back. She was almost standing on top of me. “Oh, and wear something red. It brings out your eyes,” I added before leaving.

I was still smiling as I got to my truck. I had a good feeling about tonight. The drive home wasn’t long, as my mind was occupied with thoughts of Zhen. I analyzed my emotions, realizing I cared about her. But more than that, I wanted her.

Thinking back to all our interactions, I could see it more clearly. But the fear of pulling her into my life, the bratva life, was holding me back. It was the thing that kept me from pushing or actively pursuing her, even though I felt the attraction from the moment I laid eyes on her.

Parking my truck, I raced inside and took a quick shower. Standing in front of my closet, I scanned my array of suits. I couldn’t decide which color would be best to enhance her magical look. I had to compliment her beauty, and I knew a red dress would contrast perfectly with her skin.

Deciding on a light grey suit, I got dressed. Looking in the mirror, I was satisfied. This would surely make her appearance stand out more. I wanted her to look at me with that intense hunger in her eyes once more. Grey wasn’t my color, but I knew she liked the subtle colors.

I had coffee and waited for the time to pass. I could barely contain my eagerness to see her and introduce her to the world. Staring out the window, I realized my feelings for her were growing. I wondered how far I could go with it.

Glancing at my watch, I saw it was time to go. I had to ensure the caterers were on time and the venue was ready for the first guests.

Chapter 12 - Zhenya

I stopped as I walked through the door at the party, feeling slightly nervous. Glancing around, I confirmed there were no Chernykhs present. I mean, really, did I think any of my family would attend a real estate function?

They had better things to do with their time. In all my years, none of them had ever shown any interest in real estate. I was the only one. This event was hosted by the Dubow and Morozov alliance. Plus, the project I worked on was more of a Dubow one.

I was ecstatic about being allowed to take the lead on this one. I enjoyed every moment, and if Akim felt I had to meet these people and clients, so be it. Searching the room, I saw him standing at a table to the side of the bar, talking to an elderly couple.

He noticed me as I moved through the crowd, trying to get to him. Akim smiled as he came towards me. “You look stunning,” he said, kissing my cheek.

“Thank you,” I replied, glancing at the floor. My cheeks felt slightly warm.

“Come, let me introduce you to some of our clients before we get a drink,” he said, holding out his arm.

I placed my hand on his forearm. We walked back to the table where the couple was waiting. “This is Zhen, our dream project planner with fabulous ideas,” Akim said.

“Well, then,” the man replied, extending his hand. “I’m sure glad you joined the team. I love the changes you suggested. It seemed to bring the project together seamlessly.”

“Well, thank you,” I replied, blushing slightly. It felt strangely satisfying to be seen in such a high-valued light. I wasn’t sure what else to say as I had never received compliments like these.

“Excuse us,” Akim said to the man. “I have to introduce her to a couple of people.”

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