Page 92 of Bratva Brother’s Bride

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VERA

The safe house is quieter than the penthouse ever was.

I sit in the corner of Roman’s study, wrapped in a blanket I pulled from the bedroom while I watch him work.

The morning light filters through the tall windows, casting long shadows across his face as he hunches over the secure laptop Lev provided.

He’s been at it for hours. Every so often, his voice cuts through the silence as he issues orders or demands information. This is a side of him I’ve only glimpsed before: the Bratva enforcer, the man who spent a decade in Siberia learning how to survive.

It should frighten me. Maybe part of me is frightened. But watching him take control of the chaos does something else, too. It makes me feel safer than I have any right to.

“The attackers were hired muscle,” Lev says through the video connection. “Local guys mostly, but the money trail leads back to Anton’s accounts. He wasn’t even trying to hide it.”

Roman’s jaw tightens. “Arrogant.”

“Or desperate.” Lev shrugs. “The elders are talking. Several of them have sided with Anton publicly. They’re calling your marriage to Vera a power play.”

“They would see it that way.” Roman leans back in his chair, his fingers drumming against the desk.

“Some are still on the fence.” Lev hesitates. “Your father made a statement last night. He’s getting more elders on his and Anton’s side as we speak.”

My stomach turns. I pull the blanket tighter around my shoulders, trying to make myself smaller.

Roman’s eyes flick to me, then back to the screen. “Konstantin is a fool.”

“He’s a fool with influence, and he’s not the only one. Anton’s been working the elders for weeks, Roman. He knew you’d come back eventually. He’s been preparing.”

“Then I need to stop reacting and start acting.” Roman straightens, his expression hardening. “Call a meeting. All the elders, no exceptions. I want them in one room where I can see them.”

Lev raises an eyebrow. “That’s a bold move.”

“I’m done playing defense.” Roman’s voice is cold, calculated. “Anton tried to kill me yesterday. He tried to kill my wife, too. That’s not something I can let slide.”

“What’s the play?”

Roman is quiet for a moment, his gaze distant. Then he speaks, and his words send a chill down my spine.

“I’m going to present evidence of Dmitri’s treason. Then I’m going to present evidence of Anton’s deceit. The council will have to choose sides, and they’ll do it in front of everyone.”

“That’s...” Lev trails off, shaking his head. “That’s going to cause a rift.”

“That’s the point, Lev.” Roman’s eyes are hard. “No more backroom deals. Everyone shows their hand, and we see where the chips fall.”

Lev studies him for a long moment. Then he nods. “When?”

“Tomorrow night. Give them enough time to gather, but not enough to coordinate a counter-move.”

“I’ll set it up.” Lev’s voice softens. “How’s Vera holding up?”

Roman’s gaze finds me again. “She’s here.”

“I figured. I asked how she’s holding up.”

I clear my throat. “I’m fine.”

Both men look at me, and I can tell neither of them believes it. Lev doesn’t push, just nods and signs off.