“I care more about my snacks than how fat my thighs look.”
“That was a compliment. I didn’t say anything about being fat. Your body is sexy and alluring. A masterpiece,” I divulged. “You like milk cookies a lot?”
“Yes. And these homemade ones are healthier and all.” Then she lowered her voice like she was conspiring. “But I’d still pick store-bought cookies and chocolate-dipped cherries over homemade.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know. I just like them.”
She yawned.
“I would get those cookies from the kitchen, but you look like you’re about to fall asleep.”
“Right. Sleep beckons.” She pulled the duvet to her chin before turning to the other side. “G’night.”
I turned toward her, supporting my weight with my hand.
I dropped a kiss on her forehead.
“Night, baby,” I breathed.
Judging by the hitch in her breath, she wasn’t asleep yet.
I need to get a hold of myself. Damn!
***
Monday mornings were always busy, but this one was even busier. There was another Bratva meeting, but this was a more tight-knit one. Bringing Marielle with me might be more dangerous than making her stay at home; no wise Mafia bosswould bring his wife because she’d have to stay outside, far away from the meeting arena.
So I tightened the security at the estate and planted more surveillance devices in the house, which only two of my men knew about.
Harry joined me as I stepped out of the warehouse, ready to leave for the meeting.
“Boss, I delivered it at the house.”
“Did she see you?”
“No, Boss. I dropped it by the bedroom door as you said. Agatha said she hadn’t come down yet.”
“Okay.”
Leonid approached.
“Boss. The car’s ready,” he informed.
“Let’s go,” I instructed.
Leonid went ahead to open the back door while Harry ran into the second car.
***
I was sitting on one of the chairs around the long rectangular table with my Bratva brothers, listening to the reports as the meeting started.
As usual, the agenda comprised border security, shipment control, and any recent attacks or partnerships.
Everything rolled smoothly.
Until Danil mentioned Lucien Navarro.