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“You put four bratoks on patrol, so we know you’re serious.”
I study the baby of the family. “I’m cautious.”
“You look at Lina the same way the Vor looks at Gianna,” Dmitri replies. “So roll around in your bullshit if you must, but it won’t change the truth.”
“He’s right.” Vlad refills the glasses. “Gianna will make Alexey choose someone else if you don’t step up. She’s dead set on helping this woman navigate the storm about to land. If Lina isn’t under someone’s protection, the least scrupulous suitor will succeed and probably only keep her alive long enough to gain control of the portfolio. And that’s if she’s lucky.”
Direct hit.
Vlad is absolutely correct.
“He finally gets it,” Dmitri comments.
“He sure as shit does,” Vlad replies with a laugh. “He’s gone pale.”
I ignore them both and begin strategizing. Not only do I have to convince Lina that I’m her best option, but myself as well.
I’ve never considered myself husband material. My heart is buried under layers of ice since success in my job requires complete detachment.
“It doesn’t have to be perfect,” Dmitri says quietly. “The woman needs someone ruthless, not compassionate.”
My brother is correct. Emotional intelligence won’t mean shit when the brigade of suitors land. I simply need to keep her alive. And not allow another man to take her as his wife.
It doesn’t even have to be real. It can be a marriage of convenience? One that would keep her safe until everything is settled and the jackals return to their cave.
My heartbeat slows.
It’s the right answer.
Raising my gaze, I see both my brothers staring at me. “Make sure your tuxes are clean.”
Dmitri puts out his hand, and Vlad grumbles as he pulls out his money clip. “I thought you would hold out until morning.”
“I don’t hesitate or leave shit to other people.”
Vlad slaps a stack of cash into our baby brother’s hand. “Especially when billions are involved.”
I grab my brother’s shirt. “Never say anything like that again.” I shove him away. “Lina will be my wife, so treat her accordingly.”
Dmitri holds up his glass. “To the groom.”
“Za-Molodykh,” Vlad adds with a smile.
I clink glasses and question how long it will take to convince Lina that I am her best option.
CHAPTER TEN
Lina
“Imperious.” How dare Yuri make arrangements with my boss without consulting me first. “Work from home.” Does he think he can dictate my moves?
Before I can decide how best to handle him, I see two black escalades creep down the street. “Please let it be lost diplomats.” When both vehicles park in front of my building, and the bratoks don’t move from their positions, I wonder who’s about to visit.
A large man who resembles Yuri steps out with his hand on his holster and is quickly followed by a tall woman with curls that explode around her head. “It seems there will be no returning to my old life.”
I check my reflection in the mirror and decide my appearance will have to do. Whatever Bratva royalty that is about to show up will have to take me as I am.
Two minutes later, I hear a gentle knock. “Coming.” I check my peephole and see Yuri’s look alike. “Here goes nothing.”
