《Her Volkovs #Book 4》 Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Belle''s POV "Twin Volkovs. Twin fucking Volkovs, brother! I''m going to be a father of two Volkovs!" Niki eximed while grabbing Alexei''s head with both of his hands tightly. "We will have two tiny fuckersing very soon. Congrattions brother." Alexei replied while holding Niki''s arms tightly. Smiles stered on their faces. "Thanks, brother. Wow. I''m going to be a father of two!" "Haha, you''re so fucking screwed." "Haha! I may be but shit let''s cross the bridge when we get there." I haven''t seen these two as excited and as overjoyed as this before. The warmth in my heart right now is undeniable. I am a happy and content woman. I have Niki and Alexei, the two most important men in my life, and another two moreing less than nine months from now. It seems like the two have forgotten that I''m also in the room with them and that I am the person carrying these tiny fuckers-- so to speak, in my womb. I cleared my throat to get the attention of the two. As much as I enjoy watching their bromance, my pregnant self wants to pee and I am not about to do so in this clinic. I''m just notfortable here. "Niki, Alexei, I want to go home." The two softly chuckle when they realized that they are already ignoring me, "I''m sorry baby," Niki cups my face and kisses me on my lips. "I''m just ecstatic, is all. Let''s go?" He then attempted to carry me gently in his arms but I wasn''t going to let him. I''m pregnant but I can perfectly walk. My legs are not hurting right now so there''s no need for him to carry me. "Niki, I''m fine." "Woman! Do as I say." "Or what?" I retorted. "Or...." He slid his hand under my skirt and tried to touch my femme but I swatted it immediately. "I will eat your pussy right here, right now and I will make sure that you are going to beg for me to do it again and again and again. You choose." Shit. That''s actually kinda hot. Hehe. "And we will be your Doctors while we examine every inch of that glorious pussy and ass. Look around princess, we have all we need for the role y." Said Alexei, and he looks like he''s not even kidding. Geez Belle, look at that. You have two crazy-ass horny men as your lovers. Congrattions. "Niki please? I''m serious." He lets out this dark andscivious smirk, "And you think I''m kidding? Babe, I thought you know me better. I take my wife''s pussy very seriously." I just rolled my eyes at him. Arrogance level ten thousand, Niki Vyachev Volkov. I let out a sigh of frustration. There''s no point in arguing with him. "Fine, but I want Alexei to carry me, not you." "Fine by me." Niki answered victoriously. ~ Niki, Alexei, Matushka Irene, and the rest of the boys are in one of the living rooms in the mansion celebrating the news about the twins. Matushka Irene could not be happier. She insisted that celebrations are in order, hence the unlimited drinking happening right now. I, on the other hand, just got out of the shower, brushing my hair in front of the mirror. The news about the twins has notpletely sunk in yet. I am as surprised as Niki and Alexei. Being pregnant with the child of Niki Vyachev Volkov is already a challenge, more so now that it has been confirmed that we are going to have twins. Babies from the very flesh and blood of Volkov himself. The Russian Mafia Boss, the short-tempered Billionaire bad boy who runs a criminal organization and who has a reputation that precedes him. My thoughts were interrupted when my husband suddenly appeared from the back and wrapped his arms around me, just below my breasts. He inhales deep behind my left ear. "Penny for your thoughts?" His voice is low and gentle. Truth be told, I am terrified. I don''t know if I can handle being a mother to these twins. What exactly do I know about raising babies especially in a situation like this anyway? We are not a normal family. What if my kids will get confused because they have two Pa''s? And what if they learn about the family''s business? I turn around and buried my face on Niki''s chest. "I''m scared Niki. I don''t know if I''m going to be a good mother." He pulled my chin up gently and kisses me on my lips."Shh...There''s nothing to be scared about. I''m here, my brother is here, we are going to take care of you and our babies." "It''s going to be very different when these twoe out. And it''s going to be very soon Niki! Babies! These are tiny little you!" "I know, aren''t you excited?" Niki looks so proud I don''t want to burst his bubble. That''s exactly what I''m afraid of, the babies growing up exactly like their father. Oh god, help me. "Uhuh." Are the only sybles that rolled out of my mouth. He nted a long deep kiss on my lips and when he disconnected, I inhaled the scent of liquor and cigar from his sexy breath. "What else is bothering you? Tell me, I will fix it." This has been bothering me way back and since he''s asking for me to share the thing that bothers me, here goes nothing. "Uhmm, when they grow up, how would I exin to them that you, me, and Alexei are together? How do I tell them that they have two Pa''s? And the Mafia?" "We will tell them the truth when the right timees. We will tell them that Pap¨¢ Niki and Pap¨¢ Alexei are in love with Mam¨¢ Belle. That we are total fucking wrecks without you. They will understand, I promise." He answered without any hint of doubt in his voice. Niki''s words somehow eased down my debilitating anxiety. I mean, he always does. This is one of the many qualities of Niki and Alexei that made me fall in love with them more. It''s the security. It''s the fact that they actually do what they say. It''s their protectiveness towards me or overprotectiveness for that matter. When they say that they love me, they don''t just only say it, but they do it, with full CAPS and exmation points on. They do it their way. The intense, earthshaking, everything be damned kind of way. The Volkov way. I reached for his lips as my response. "I love you Niki." "Ya tebya lyublyu Mam¨¢." He whispers so very gently, even the coldest of hearts will warm up and melt. "Where''s your brother?" "Here." Alexei inserted out of nowhere. So he''s here all along? "Alexei,e here." I reached out my other arm so I can embrace them both at the same time. "How long have you been here, lurking?" I asked while brushing his hairline with my fingers. "Long enough." He smiled and then kisses me on my neck then my lips. "Princess, when you give birth, I can stay in our old house or the penthouse until we figure things out. You don''t have to worry about a single thing." My heart instantly sunk. He must have heard us talk about my concern on how to deal with talking to our children someday that their mother is being shared by their Pa''s. "Why would you even think of living separate from us?"I scolded him. "What the fuck brother?" Niki said while wrapping his arm around Alexei''s neck as if choking him. "I just don''t want the princess to worry about these kinds of things while she''s pregnant. Amy told me that you should not be stressed out, or get worried or depressed because it will affect you and the babies." Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. "And you think that staying away from me is going to do that? I would be heartbroken Alexei!" Oh god. Just the thought of him away from me is already torture. I just can''t be without these two especially now that I''m pregnant. I just can''t. "Princess." "No! Nobody''s leaving! You''ve done this to me before and if you do it again, I swear Alexei, I''m going to be out of your life for good! Then you can live at the old house or even at that filthy ce called Zora for all I care! You can fuck that Ratiana bitch all you want! You can...uwmrmmurmm armwmum." Alexei pulled my head towards him for a deep and sensual kiss when I''m already fuming in anger. When he pulled away, I was running out of breath. "Ratiana? I''m pretty sure we did not hire any rodents to work at Zora, or did we brother?" Niki chuckled, "I''m gonna have to ask Dmitri just to double-check." Grr! I hit them both on their chests but they just smile like nothing. "I hate you both." "We love you too baby." Niki replied while pulling back my hair gently. "The three of us, forever and ever remember?" Niki said. "The three of us, forever and ever." Alexei added. "Niki, Alexei, and Belle, forever and ever." I replied. ~ The celebration continued with Dimitri telling funny and drunk stories I''m not even sure are true. From among the boys, Dimitri is the youngest, perhaps 23 or 25. He often gets away with being naughty and mischievous only because the Volkov brothers let him. He''s the most vocal of them all but he also possesses that certain kind of oomph just like all the men in the Russian Mafia. Niki is to my right, being extra touchy and clingy while Alexei is resting his head on myp, holding my other hand tightly. The two have already been drinking perhaps more than they should but since we are in the mansion and we are celebrating, I just let them be. Niki''s other men are taking charge of the security of the mansion, looking all serious and deadly as usual. While listening to Dimitri I received a message from our group chat. Volkov Chat Group I_will_eat_your_pussy is online. Thoushallbespanked is now online. Mrs_Volkov is now online. I_will_eat_your_pussy: Me + You + the fucker on yourp + ???? = ???? When he noticed that I was already able to read his kind of NSFW yet very cute message, he grinned and looked at me with those ridiculously sexy dark green eyes to see my reaction. Gah! He looks even hotter whilst under the influence of liquor. I didn''t know that it''s even possible. Drunk men are often gross but these Russian men, especially their Bosses? Na-ah. Still hot. Very hot! Mrs_Volkov: ?? Cute. But please change your username Niki. I_will_eat_your_pussy: Your pussy is my favorite vor. ?? Thoushallbespanked: Hell yeah! Haha. I sigh in defeat. Mrs_Volkov: I did not ask you about your favorite vor Niki, I asked you to change your username. And you Alexei, please do not encourage your brother. P.S Since when did you learn how to use emojis? I_will_eat_your_pussy: Dear wife, let''s fuck outside. I want to tear you down like a fucking wolf under the moonlight. Thoushallbespanked: Now that''s my kind of Romance. Oh gosh. That sounds exciting. Ahhh! Tiny electric current are trickling up my spine just by the thought of it. Making love outdoor to Niki and Alexei would be very naughty and unbelievably hot! I can already feel my face flush. Mrs_Volkov: Hmmm... Only if you catch me. *Give me a minute headstart, please? Pregnant remember?* Thoushallbespanked: 30 seconds. I_will_eat_your_pussy: He has spoken. You better up your hide game baby, because we are cumming. Thoushallbespanked: Haha. And don''t hide behind the bushes. Shit. The adrenaline is starting to pump in my system. Alexei removed himself from me as I slowly excuse myself from the group. When I was able to reach the foyer, I ran as fast as I can outside and scanned if I can hide behind the topiaries or any other structure in the victorian style garden. Two of Niki''s men saw me head towards thewn so I tried to y it cool first, as if I''m just walking for some fresh air and when they were able to walk away, I sprinted my way to a much darker location. ~ Niki and Alexei are casually walking away from the group as they head outside the Volkov Mansion. They stood at the top of the grand concrete staircase overlooking the very long driveway and the garden. The two stood in all their godly glory as Alexei dials his phone. "Control, find your Madame, give us her exact location and send me a picture of her." Control Room (Somewhere in the Mansion) - "Right away Boss." Niki and Alexei looked at each other while smirks are stered on their faces. Alexei: "This is fucking amazing. Haven''t felt this rush for quite a while." Niki: "Drop it a notch brother. Let''s try not to make the mother of our children bleed after this." Alexei: "Yup." Niki: (Looks at Alexei unconvinced by his brother''s one-word response and gazes away while shaking his head.) Control Room (Somewhere in the Mansion) - "Madame is at the east side of the garden, she''s hiding behind the blue princess holly bush." Alexei: Blue princess fucking what? How the fuck do you think-- Niki: (Interrupts Alexei who was about to lose his mind) Just send us the goddam screenshots of your Madame. Turn off all camera feeds on the east side and all adjacent cameras. Tell the roaming guards to skip the east wing until further notice. Do it now. Control Room (Somewhere in the Mansion) - "Copy Boss. Camera feeds going offline now." Alexei: "I told her not to hide behind the bushes but she did it anyway. Fucking hot rebel." Niki: "That''s our girl." ~ Belle''s POV "Where would my princess be hiding brother? I never thought she''s this good in the game of hide and seek and fuck." That''s Alexei and he''s just a few feet away from me to my left. I can only see his ck shoes and pants. "That stubborn woman is such a pain in the ass. I can''t wait to fuck her senseless." Said Niki whose semi pointy and shiny ck shoes is a few feet away to my right. I''m trying very hard not to blurt out a giggle. Gosh. Are these two blind or what? All they have to do is look down and move some twigs. My feet and legs have already grown tired from squatting, can''t they just find me already?! I decided to shake the bush to get the attention of the two but to no avail. Argh! I''m here! Yuho! Alexei soft chuckled. I was so d because I thought they found me already until he spoke again. "This Ratiana, I mean Tatiana is calling. Should I answer her just to get some nut out? I mean, the princess is still out of reach. A pussy is a pussy you know?" This is when the pounding of my heart started to raise. I am now fuming in anger! Zero to a hundred real friggin quick. Whether these two are just teasing me or they are being serious, doesn''t matter. They both know that this kind of talk is my breaking point. To my surprise, Niki answered Alexei''s question, "Yah, why not. I''m next when you''re done with her. Let''s just put her in one of the rooms. How about the..." And in this part,dies and gentlemen is where Mary Arabe Galves Volkov rises and murders her lovers with a pair of snapped twigs of a bush. I bet these tiny leaves are good for the skin. Let us see. "Aaaahh!" I smack the two on their faces with the bushes I magnificently chose as my murder weapon. The two were taken by surprise because of the nt thatnded on their handsome and cheating faces. I then stomped my way back to the mansion but was instantly halted when Alexei grabbed me by the waist and carried me while I try so hard to get away. "My princess so angry and so hot. Come on, let''s fuck." "No! You and your brother go fuck Ratiana!" I darted a re at Niki but I almost lost myposure when I saw him trying to spit out a few leaves from his mouth. He also has tiny leaves all over his hair and shoulders. Omg, I got him good. Alexei isughing like a maniac, grunting while carrying me with one hand and swatting a bug and some leaves from his face and hair with his other hand. I covered my mouth to suppress a giggle but failed miserably. "Hey bro, she thinks pping us with a nt is funny." Alexei said without a hint of humor in his voice. "I have never been shamed in my life as I have just now." Niki retorted sounding very serious as well. This upgraded my giggles to a full-blownugh, I can barely breathe. "Huh. I think I know how to shut her sexy lips up." Said Niki as he pulls my skirt up and pulls down my panties. He then knelt in one knee in front of me, lifted my right leg, and ced it on his shoulder giving him the perfect angle to my vagina. Alexei then removes my crop top making my breasts hang freely in the air. I do not wear a bra anymore while I''m home as per Niki''s strict directive plus I''m morefortable without it so I unhesitantly obliged. My strength slowly drained and my bodypletely gave up struggling when Niki startedpping in between my slit. I suddenly gasped for air when Alexei wrapped his hand around my neck, choking me. This is when Niki licked and sucked on my pearl at the same time. The sensation I''m feeling became unbearable. "So beautiful, my princess. You are beautiful." Alexei whispers in my ear. Niki licked his way up my abdomen, stomach then my breasts, and then kissed my lips passionately, making me taste my own wetness. "My sweet baby''s pussy is wet. I think she''s ready brother." Niki said with a low and hoarse voice. Alexei then ran his palm from my neck to my mouth tightly, "Shhh...Do not say a fucking word. Understood? No word, not a single syble muste from this mouth. Do as I say or else your punishment will be painful and swift." I nod in submission as chills run down my spine to Alexei''s threat. I know him and the tone in his voice is not sweet and definitely not a joke. The atmosphere suddenly became lustfully dark. "Bend over, spread your legs slightly and suck the Boss'' c*ck." Oh my gosh. I did what I was told and started sucking and blowing Niki''s impressive member while Alexei is grinding his manhood on my ass and fingering my femme at the same time. Niki collected my hair and held it tightly as my head bobs up and down, his c*ck hitting my throat. At this point, Niki hasn''t spoken a single word. It is Alexei who is in control of the situation. I moaned involuntarily when I felt Alexei lick and run his tongue on my femme and my ass from the back. Oh goodness. This is amazing. And then, throbbing pain followed when Alexei hits my bum, it made one loud pping sound. He choked me once again and pulled me up so that my back is leaning against his chest. "I said shut the fuck up." He inhaled deeply, smelling my hair. "You like it rough don''t you? Huh? You dirty slut." I can''t believe I will get so much satisfaction from being called a slut by Alexei. What in the world is wrong with me? Niki held my jaw and squeezed it tightly, making my lips protrude. He then kissed me roughly, making tiny painful bites in between. He is not saying a single word but his actions spoke louder. He relishes this moment. He is aroused. He is stimted that his wife is being fucked-- hard by his brother, in front of him. I have known of this fact and I ept and love him just the same. I am a willing participant. Hell, I am more than willing because of Alexei. The other love of my life is in his sexual element right now. Alexei made me spread my legs to wrap around Niki''s waist. He then slowly inserted his c*ck in my ass while Niki positions himself morefortably and then slowly inserted his member in my p*ssy. I arched my back as I savor each and every second that I am being prated from both sides. Their c*cks hitting the walls of my femme and my ass so perfectly. This is pleasure and torture at the same time. I want to scream because of the wonderful feeling of being shared by the two most important men in my life, but I can''t quantify and express this feeling in words because I want to be a good slut for Alexei. I bit my lower lip when the two are now pounding me hard in intervals. When Niki pushes his c*ck in my p*ssy, Alexei pulls out from the back. It''s already driving me insane. When Niki pushes, Alexei pulls. This went on and on until one of them said, ''fuck'' while the grip on my waist became too tight I know I will bruise. And then, both of them removed themselves from me. "Down on your knees." Commands Alexei. I did what I was told and knelt in front of them. They are now jacking off while looking down at me. When they were able to reach their climax they spit all their cum all over my breasts. Like any other woman who will be put in my current situation, I wasn''t able to resist the urge to hold both their hard and erect members. I finished them off with my tongue and some minor sucking. One c*ck at a time, I licked and sucked them in intervals. "That was great baby." Says Niki while wiping their white goo from my breasts with his hanky and then kissed me on my lips and my forehead. Alexei on the other hand was the one who gathered my clothes and panties from the grass. He then picked me up from the ground and carried me in his arms. We sat on the bench just a few meters away while I''m on Alexei''sp. He then made me wear my top back and kissed me on my lips. "My princess." "Uhmm, can I speak now?" I said all innocently just to tease him. They both chuckled in unison. "Yes of course my sweet and sexy slut." Alexei replied. I just smack him on his chest. "So shall we?" Said Niki. "Shall we what?" I asked, eyebrows furrowed. "We shall make our queen cum." Alexei answered. "Oh." Is all I was able to mutter. My face instantly flushed. "So, who''s tongue you want first?" Niki asked while pulling his cor and acting all arrogant. "Uhm, well." "Well?" Alexei asked eagerly. "Well, I want both at the same time." I answered with blushing cheeks. ~ Belle was already asleep when the three went back to the mansion. Niki was carrying her in his arms while Alexei was holding Belle''s shoes. Yuri and the other men were waiting for them toe back. "Boss, the Conglomerate called. The grand conglomerate meeting will be held tomorrow. The Escobars are the host. Location will be confirmed tomorrow as per tradition." "Alert the men. Prepare the private jet and have the maids pack our bags and their Madame''s things. Dmitri will take charge while we''re away." "Aww Boss, but I don''t want to skip the most awesome part of being a gangster. The sun, the cars, the pissing contest of every fucking Mafia family on the face of the earth, and them titties and pussies." Dmitri replied all tipsy. Matushka buts in "Niki, I will take charge. Just take this poor hungry boy with you. I will take care of everything." "Matushka, Madame needs you there. You know how the women of the conglomerate could be. They will eat her alive. I changed my mind. I''ll stay." Dmitri retorts back. "Boys, Belle''s charm alone will be her best weapon. You don''t have to worry about her, worry about the women who will try to mess with her. She will demolish those old stic bitches without our girl breaking a sweat." Matushka said with all certainty. Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Belle''s POV The celebration continued with Dimitri telling funny and drunk stories I''m not even sure are true. From among the boys, Dimitri is the youngest, perhaps 23 or 25. He often gets away with being naughty and mischievous only because the Volkov brothers let him. He''s the most vocal of them all but he also possesses that certain kind of oomph just like all the men in the Russian Mafia. Niki is to my right, being extra touchy and clingy while Alexei is resting his head on myp, holding my other hand tightly. The two have already been drinking perhaps more than they should but since we are in the mansion and we are celebrating, I just let them be. Niki''s other men are taking charge of the security of the mansion, looking all serious and deadly as usual. While listening to Dimitri I received a message from our group chat. Volkov Chat Group I_will_eat_your_pussy is online. Thoushallbespanked is now online. Mrs_Volkov is now online. I_will_eat_your_pussy: Me + You + the fucker on yourp + ???? = ???? When he noticed that I was already able to read his kind of NSFW yet very cute message, he grinned and looked at me with those ridiculously sexy dark green eyes to see my reaction. Gah! He looks even hotter whilst under the influence of liquor. I didn''t know that it''s even possible. Drunk men are often gross but these Russian men, especially their Bosses? Na-ah. Still hot. Very hot! Mrs_Volkov: ?? Cute. But please change your username Niki. I_will_eat_your_pussy: Your pussy is my favorite vor. ?? Thoushallbespanked: Hell yeah! Haha. I sigh in defeat. Mrs_Volkov: I did not ask you about your favorite vor Niki, I asked you to change your username. And you Alexei, please do not encourage your brother. P.S Since when did you learn how to use emojis? I_will_eat_your_pussy: Dear wife, let''s fuck outside. I want to tear you down like a fucking wolf under the moonlight. Thoushallbespanked: Now that''s my kind of Romance. Oh gosh. That sounds exciting. Ahhh! Tiny electric current are trickling up my spine just by the thought of it. Making love outdoor to Niki and Alexei would be very naughty and unbelievably hot! I can already feel my face flush. Mrs_Volkov: Hmmm... Only if you catch me. *Give me a minute headstart, please? Pregnant remember?* Thoushallbespanked: 30 seconds. N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content. I_will_eat_your_pussy: He has spoken. You better up your hide game baby, because we are cumming. Thoushallbespanked: Haha. And don''t hide behind the bushes. Shit. The adrenaline is starting to pump in my system. Alexei removed himself from me as I slowly excuse myself from the group. When I was able to reach the foyer, I ran as fast as I can outside and scanned if I can hide behind the topiaries or any other structure in the victorian style garden. Two of Niki''s men saw me head towards thewn so I tried to y it cool first, as if I''m just walking for some fresh air and when they were able to walk away, I sprinted my way to a much darker location. ~ Niki and Alexei are casually walking away from the group as they head outside the Volkov Mansion. They stood at the top of the grand concrete staircase overlooking the very long driveway and the garden. The two stood in all their godly glory as Alexei dials his phone. "Control, find your Madame, give us her exact location and send me a picture of her." Control Room (Somewhere in the Mansion) - "Right away Boss." Niki and Alexei looked at each other while smirks are stered on their faces. Alexei: "This is fucking amazing. Haven''t felt this rush for quite a while." Niki: "Drop it a notch brother. Let''s try not to make the mother of our children bleed after this." Alexei: "Yup." Niki: (Looks at Alexei unconvinced by his brother''s one-word response and gazes away while shaking his head.) Control Room (Somewhere in the Mansion) - "Madame is at the east side of the garden, she''s hiding behind the blue princess holly bush." Alexei: Blue princess fucking what? How the fuck do you think-- Niki: (Interrupts Alexei who was about to lose his mind) Just send us the goddam screenshots of your Madame. Turn off all camera feeds on the east side and all adjacent cameras. Tell the roaming guards to skip the east wing until further notice. Do it now. Control Room (Somewhere in the Mansion) - "Copy Boss. Camera feeds going offline now." Alexei: "I told her not to hide behind the bushes but she did it anyway. Fucking hot rebel." Niki: "That''s our girl." ~ Belle''s POV "Where would my princess be hiding brother? I never thought she''s this good in the game of hide and seek and fuck." That''s Alexei and he''s just a few feet away from me to my left. I can only see his ck shoes and pants. "That stubborn woman is such a pain in the ass. I can''t wait to fuck her senseless." Said Niki whose semi pointy and shiny ck shoes is a few feet away to my right. I''m trying very hard not to blurt out a giggle. Gosh. Are these two blind or what? All they have to do is look down and move some twigs. My feet and legs have already grown tired from squatting, can''t they just find me already?! I decided to shake the bush to get the attention of the two but to no avail. Argh! I''m here! Yuho! Alexei soft chuckled. I was so d because I thought they found me already until he spoke again. "This Ratiana, I mean Tatiana is calling. Should I answer her just to get some nut out? I mean, the princess is still out of reach. A pussy is a pussy you know?" This is when the pounding of my heart started to raise. I am now fuming in anger! Zero to a hundred real friggin quick. Whether these two are just teasing me or they are being serious, doesn''t matter. They both know that this kind of talk is my breaking point. To my surprise, Niki answered Alexei''s question, "Yah, why not. I''m next when you''re done with her. Let''s just put her in one of the rooms. How about the..." And in this part,dies and gentlemen is where Mary Arabe Galves Volkov rises and murders her lovers with a pair of snapped twigs of a bush. I bet these tiny leaves are good for the skin. Let us see. "Aaaahh!" I smack the two on their faces with the bushes I magnificently chose as my murder weapon. The two were taken by surprise because of the nt thatnded on their handsome and cheating faces. I then stomped my way back to the mansion but was instantly halted when Alexei grabbed me by the waist and carried me while I try so hard to get away. "My princess so angry and so hot. Come on, let''s fuck." "No! You and your brother go fuck Ratiana!" I darted a re at Niki but I almost lost myposure when I saw him trying to spit out a few leaves from his mouth. He also has tiny leaves all over his hair and shoulders. Omg, I got him good. Alexei isughing like a maniac, grunting while carrying me with one hand and swatting a bug and some leaves from his face and hair with his other hand. I covered my mouth to suppress a giggle but failed miserably. "Hey bro, she thinks pping us with a nt is funny." Alexei said without a hint of humor in his voice. "I have never been shamed in my life as I have just now." Niki retorted sounding very serious as well. This upgraded my giggles to a full-blownugh, I can barely breathe. "Huh. I think I know how to shut her sexy lips up." Said Niki as he pulls my skirt up and pulls down my panties. He then knelt in one knee in front of me, lifted my right leg, and ced it on his shoulder giving him the perfect angle to my vagina. Alexei then removes my crop top making my breasts hang freely in the air. I do not wear a bra anymore while I''m home as per Niki''s strict directive plus I''m morefortable without it so I unhesitantly obliged. My strength slowly drained and my bodypletely gave up struggling when Niki startedpping in between my slit. I suddenly gasped for air when Alexei wrapped his hand around my neck, choking me. This is when Niki licked and sucked on my pearl at the same time. The sensation I''m feeling became unbearable. "So beautiful, my princess. You are beautiful." Alexei whispers in my ear. Niki licked his way up my abdomen, stomach then my breasts, and then kissed my lips passionately, making me taste my own wetness. "My sweet baby''s pussy is wet. I think she''s ready brother." Niki said with a low and hoarse voice. Alexei then ran his palm from my neck to my mouth tightly, "Shhh...Do not say a fucking word. Understood? No word, not a single syble muste from this mouth. Do as I say or else your punishment will be painful and swift." I nod in submission as chills run down my spine to Alexei''s threat. I know him and the tone in his voice is not sweet and definitely not a joke. The atmosphere suddenly became lustfully dark. "Bend over, spread your legs slightly and suck the Boss'' c*ck." Oh my gosh. I did what I was told and started sucking and blowing Niki''s impressive member while Alexei is grinding his manhood on my ass and fingering my femme at the same time. Niki collected my hair and held it tightly as my head bobs up and down, his c*ck hitting my throat. At this point, Niki hasn''t spoken a single word. It is Alexei who is in control of the situation. I moaned involuntarily when I felt Alexei lick and run his tongue on my femme and my ass from the back. Oh goodness. This is amazing. And then, throbbing pain followed when Alexei hits my bum, it made one loud pping sound. He choked me once again and pulled me up so that my back is leaning against his chest. "I said shut the fuck up." He inhaled deeply, smelling my hair. "You like it rough don''t you? Huh? You dirty slut." I can''t believe I will get so much satisfaction from being called a slut by Alexei. What in the world is wrong with me? Niki held my jaw and squeezed it tightly, making my lips protrude. He then kissed me roughly, making tiny painful bites in between. He is not saying a single word but his actions spoke louder. He relishes this moment. He is aroused. He is stimted that his wife is being fucked-- hard by his brother, in front of him. I have known of this fact and I ept and love him just the same. I am a willing participant. Hell, I am more than willing because of Alexei. The other love of my life is in his sexual element right now. Alexei made me spread my legs to wrap around Niki''s waist. He then slowly inserted his c*ck in my ass while Niki positions himself morefortably and then slowly inserted his member in my p*ssy. I arched my back as I savor each and every second that I am being prated from both sides. Their c*cks hitting the walls of my femme and my ass so perfectly. This is pleasure and torture at the same time. I want to scream because of the wonderful feeling of being shared by the two most important men in my life, but I can''t quantify and express this feeling in words because I want to be a good slut for Alexei. I bit my lower lip when the two are now pounding me hard in intervals. When Niki pushes his c*ck in my p*ssy, Alexei pulls out from the back. It''s already driving me insane. When Niki pushes, Alexei pulls. This went on and on until one of them said, ''fuck'' while the grip on my waist became too tight I know I will bruise. And then, both of them removed themselves from me. "Down on your knees." Commands Alexei. I did what I was told and knelt in front of them. They are now jacking off while looking down at me. When they were able to reach their climax they spit all their cum all over my breasts. Like any other woman who will be put in my current situation, I wasn''t able to resist the urge to hold both their hard and erect members. I finished them off with my tongue and some minor sucking. One c*ck at a time, I licked and sucked them in intervals. "That was great baby." Says Niki while wiping their white goo from my breasts with his hanky and then kissed me on my lips and my forehead. Alexei on the other hand was the one who gathered my clothes and panties from the grass. He then picked me up from the ground and carried me in his arms. We sat on the bench just a few meters away while I''m on Alexei''sp. He then made me wear my top back and kissed me on my lips. "My princess." "Uhmm, can I speak now?" I said all innocently just to tease him. They both chuckled in unison. "Yes of course my sweet and sexy slut." Alexei replied. I just smack him on his chest. "So shall we?" Said Niki. "Shall we what?" I asked, eyebrows furrowed. "We shall make our queen cum." Alexei answered. "Oh." Is all I was able to mutter. My face instantly flushed. "So, who''s tongue you want first?" Niki asked while pulling his cor and acting all arrogant. "Uhm, well." "Well?" Alexei asked eagerly. "Well, I want both at the same time." I answered with blushing cheeks. ~ Belle was already asleep when the three went back to the mansion. Niki was carrying her in his arms while Alexei was holding Belle''s shoes. Yuri and the other men were waiting for them toe back. "Boss, the Conglomerate called. The grand conglomerate meeting will be held tomorrow. The Escobars are the host. Location will be confirmed tomorrow as per tradition." "Alert the men. Prepare the private jet and have the maids pack our bags and their Madame''s things. Dmitri will take charge while we''re away." "Aww Boss, but I don''t want to skip the most awesome part of being a gangster. The sun, the cars, the pissing contest of every fucking Mafia family on the face of the earth, and them titties and pussies." Dmitri replied all tipsy. Matushka buts in "Niki, I will take charge. Just take this poor hungry boy with you. I will take care of everything." "Matushka, Madame needs you there. You know how the women of the conglomerate could be. They will eat her alive. I changed my mind. I''ll stay." Dmitri retorts back. "Boys, Belle''s charm alone will be her best weapon. You don''t have to worry about her, worry about the women who will try to mess with her. She will demolish those old stic bitches without our girl breaking a sweat." Matushka said with all certainty. Chapter 3 Chapter 3 Belle''s POV I woke up the next morning beside a wooden crate marked Eastwoods Animal Sanctuary. I can actually hear some scratching going on inside the crate. There''s a baby feeding bottle filled with milk and a small note on top of the crate which says: ~~~ To my sunshine, Forgive me, but I do not regret kissing you. Yuri ~~~ It''s from Yuri. We haven''t really talked about what he did when he decided to defy the Mafia and went on to kiss me and confessed his love for me. To now, I''m still convinced that he is just confused and perhaps just lonely. Niki and Alexei believe otherwise. Regardless, the man still deserves to be taken care of because he is family. Not being able to marry nor enter into rtionships whilst around Niki and Alexei is cruel and against human instincts. Everyone deserves to fall in love and be loved back. It''s a basic human right. Not to mention that it''s the most beautiful thing that can happen to a person. I am just somehow relieved that Niki and Alexei did not banish him from the Mafia or worse-- I can''t even say it. It''s unthinkable. While stepping towards the crate, I hear some animal noise from inside. I then extended my legs to slowly open the crate with my toes. When I was able to push the cover away I slowly peeked to see what''s inside. There''s a little ck puffy animal growling so adorably inside my chest fluttered with joy in an instant. All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. Oh my gosh! It''s a tiny little bear! I slowly carried it in my arms and fed it with the milk from the baby bottle. Aww it''s hungry, that''s why. You poor little thing. And then I remember the little incident in Russia when we broke into a bear sanctuary. I was admittedly a little bitchy on that day and the person on the receiving end was Yuri. Where''s your momma? Did they take you away from your momma? Look at you so hungry. Come on. Let''s go find the man who brought you here. I found Yuri in the huge kitchen having his breakfast with Dimitri and the rest of Alexei''s men. "Look what I found in my room." I said as I approach Yuri. The maids and the boys instantly greeted me as soon as they saw me enter the kitchen. "It''s the cutest thing ever, thank you Yuri." I slightly bent over to kiss him on his cheek. The man lets out a coy smile in response. "Yo, baby Madame, don''t get too attached though. That predator is just up for loan for a few hours. We need to return that thing before we leave for Colombia." "Colombia?" I asked with wrinkled eyebrows as I have no single clue what the man is talking about. "The big bosses did not tell you yet?" He retorted. Yuri cleared his throat while darting a serious look at Dimitri. "The Boss, Alexei and Matushka are in a meeting with our people at the warehouse as we speak. The Boss left us with you so you can practice shooting before we leave for Colombia this evening for the Conglomerate Meeting." Upon further inquiry, Yuri said that it''s a yearly event where the different criminal organizations and crime families gather. It is when the Bosses of these organizations meet to discuss business, territory, etc. Apparently, the quick conglomerate meet up that I personally witnessed before was just a prelude to the grand conglomerate meeting. "Oh so, we are leaving tonight? I need to pack then." I said. "No need, it has been taken care of baby Madame. We need to teach you how to shoot before the Boss arrives or else I''m fucked." Dimitri answered. "Uhmm. No. I don''t want to practice shooting. Bye." I retorted. I exited the kitchen, walking as fast as I can. I''m not particrlyfortable holding a gun. Papa and my cousin Devon once tried to teach me how to shoot but it ended tragically. I identally shot one of our gardeners who was pruning a tree not far from us. He just fell to the ground like a bird. We actually did not know that he was there in the first ce. Luckily, his gunshot wound wasn''t that fatal. From then on, Papa never attempted to teach me again. Instead, my cousin Devon took charge of my security. I cringe just by recalling that moment. Even Matushka''s gun has been collecting dust in one of the drawers at our home at the Brownstone. I found no use for them since I am surrounded by four bodyguards on a regr basis. It''s kinda heavy and although small in size, still requires a good amount of skill to carry. ~ 20 minutester ~ "Yuri! Put me down at once! I''m telling you, I don''t want to practice shoot!" I''m trying my very best to wiggle off from him but his arms are tightly holding my legs together while my bum is flying in the air. "I''m pregnant! Why am I being manhandled? You can''t force me against my will! Niki will know of this!" "Goddamit Madame! Why are you so stubborn?! Just let us do our job." Said Dimitri who is following us from behind. "The Boss gave us the permission to do whatever necessary to get you to shoot. This is for your own good." Answered Yuri who grunts as he slowly puts me down. He then brushes the strands of my hair that are covering my face. I begrudgingly swat his hands off of my face but the man is quite persistent. I just rolled my eyes at him in defeat. There''s a table next to us with a box full of guns and bullets and the small gun that was gifted to me by Matushka. There''s also a target paper many yards away from us in the makeshift open firing range situated in the open field next to the garden. "Hand me your phone please? I want to talk to Niki." I asked Yuri. He handed it to me, and in just a few rings, Niki answered. "Speak." "Niki. It''s me. Where are you?" "I''m in a meeting. We''ll finish in a short while. What''s the matter?" "They are forcing me to practice shoot. I don''t--" "Babe, it''s for your own good. I want you to learn how to shoot before we go to Colombia tonight. This is for additional precaution. What did I tell you about being in the Mafia? Always what?" I know he''s waiting for me to say always protect yourself but I don''t want to give in yet, "Always---love your wife and not force her to hold a gun against her will?" I retorted. I hear him softly chuckle."Baby, always?" He asked once again waiting for me to continue the statement. "Always--- look away from temptation because your wife is going to chop your penis off if he catches you cheating on her?" "Hmm..brutal, but necessary. Okay. How about you think of this as your training for when you need to shoot me or Alexei?" He said so gently. This time, I''m the one who let out a chuckle. "Hmm-- that is actually a great motivation." "See, that''s my girl." I eventually gave in after threats of not being able to go with them to Colombia was ced as an option. There is no way in hell that I will be left here in New York. When I called Amy that we were leaving for Colombia tonight for the conglomerate meeting, she squealed in joy because she was going as well. Only this time, she''s with the Albanian Mob with her brother. Rumor has it, she told me, that there are a lot of things happening aside from the meeting, like sex parties and otherworldly stuff I did not even dare ask in detail. I trust Niki and Alexei with all my heart but I will follow my intuition this time. I will never trust the women who, as I expect, will just throw themselves at the two. Heck, I can''t even trust myself when I''m around them, what more the women who think that these two are still avable? I need to show the women of the underground criminal world that Niki Vyachev Volkov and Alexei Viktor Volkov are no more avable in the market. This is me asserting myself as the wife of Volkov. The very pregnant Mrs. Volkov. Oh wow. Hormones are giving me some serious Matushka Irene vibe, I friggin love it. "Come home now please Niki." "Okay. Be there in a few. Do you need anything?" "I already have everything I need. Although, can you get me some pringles on your way home? The twins want to eat." He snorts,"The twins have grown quite an appetite." "Yup. Pringles for three. End of." I replied with sass. "Okay. I fold. I believe Alexei bought you a month''s supply of pringles. It''s in the pantry." "Really? Yum! Can I talk to him?" Alexei answered, "Hey, how''s the shooting going?" "Come home Alexei. I want you to teach me not Dimitri." He chuckled, "What''s wrong with the bastard?" "Well, for one, I caught him staring at my breasts several times since this morning." "Hey! Not true Boss! Just a couple of times." The crazy man butts in. "The motherfuck---" Alexei inhales deep as if trying to calm himself. "Okay. I''ll teach you myself. We''ll be home in just a short while. Love you." "Love you, Alexei. I miss daddy so much." I said, teasingly. "Dammit princess, this is not a good time." I giggled. Chapter 4 Chapter 4 Belle''s POV I''m eating my brunch in the garden while waiting for the loves of my life toe home. Dimitri and Yuri are busy on their phones, calling people so that the Mafia is business as usual even though the big Bosses and the men who hold high positions such as Yuri, Dimitri, and Boris are all bound for Colombia. Just as I was about to finish my food. Three ck and shiny SUVs are pulling over the driveway. Boris, Niki, and Alexei went out of the luxury SUV in the middle and instantly walked casually towards our direction. My lord. What did I ever do to deserve these two magnificent species of men? My stomach is fluttering just by the sight of them. No woman would ever be immune to their godly charm, I am sure of that. Niki instantly scoops me from the ground wrapped his arms around my back as I intertwine my legs around his waist. This is the reason why I sometimes tend to forget that I''m a plus-sized woman. My weight can easily hurt their back when carrying me like I''m just a size two. I honestly don''t know how they make it look like no big deal. "My Queen. Guess what''s my most favorite part of the day?" He asks while looking at me with those ridiculously beautiful dark green eyes. "Hmm.. what?" I say as I struggle to hold my top together since the man is kissing my cleavage yfully. "Going home to my beautiful wife." He replies while nuzzling my chest like a maniac. "Yah?" Is the only word that rolled out of my mouth as I turn all squishy inside. "Yah. You smell so good baby." "Niki, put me down please? Your men are watching." "Since when did I give a fuck?" He retorts back arrogantly. Apparently, I can''t recall an instance. When he and his brother want to be all cuddly and touchy, they don''t really give a single damn if there are ogling eyes around. They will touch and kiss me without a care to the world. "Did you have your breakfast yet?" I asked. "Yup. Me and my brother had your fresh pussy juice this morning and your delicious pussy sandwich." He answered with just enough volume that I can only hear. My lips parted in disbelief. Goodness! I quickly cover his mouth and swatted his face in an instant. "Niki, you seriously need a doctor. Put me down. It''s Alexei''s turn now." He then gently made me stand on my feet and finally sits down to eat some food. Not too far away from us are Boris and the other love of my life Alexei who is already on Dimitri, teasingly choking the crazy man with his right arm around his neck. ~ Boris, Yuri, Dimitri, and Alexei not too far from Belle. "Come on brother! I wasn''t looking at baby Madame''s titties!" Dimitri eximed. "So what does that mean? You don''t find your Madame hot?" Alexei asks with a hint of dark humor in his voice. "What? No! Madame is super--" "Super what?!" "What I mean is-- yes!" "So yes, you were looking at your Madame?! Fucking tell me the truth Dimi boy." "No! Of course not!" "No? So you don''t find your Madame hot? Are you fucking trying to insult me and the Boss?" "What the fuck!? Damned if I do, damned if I don''t?! Fine! Madame is very hot! I fucking love looking at her titties and that ass man, I mean dayum. I want my future girl to be as fine as her." They continued poking at each other on their way to Belle and Niki. ~ All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. Bell''s POV "Rx princess. I got you." Whispers Alexei whose body is pressed against my back in a way that I feel safe albeit feeling a little shaky while I am holding a 9mm pistol aimed at the target. "Easy breaths. Focus on the target. Do not be afraid. No one is gonna fall off a tree if you shoot, I already made sure of that." He says gently. I can almost see him smile on my left ear. "You know what happened with the gardener?" I asked as I slightly look to the side. This time, a snort escaped his mouth, "Yes. And it was the most hrious story your mum ever told us about you. Next to my most favorite story of you of course." "There''s another story?" I asked all puzzled. "Yup. Now, let''s not get distracted, shall we? Focus on the target. Think of it as the man who wants to hurt the people that you love." He says as he removes his hands from my arms. "Are you gonna let that person hurt you and the people that you love the most? That man is going to kill us if you will not kill him first. He won''t stop until he ruins our lives." Alexei slowly detached himself from me and I can hear his voice slowly fade away from my distance. "He''s about to shoot me and my brother on our heads just like what he did to Pa Viktor and Pa Vyachev. Are you just gonna let that happen, Belle? Are you just going to let that man---" Bang! Bang! Bang! I pulled the trigger the moment the image of Niki and Alexei facing the same fate as their fathers shed before my eyes. I cannot even start to imagine myself without them. It will be the death of me. The target was brought in front of us by one of Niki''s men. Lo and behold, the two bullets are a little to the left while the other one went straight through inside the ck circle. All of the men instantly apuded my tiny feat. They had smiles on their faces like proud daddies. Embarrassment crawled up my body in an instant. "You guys! It was nothing. Beginner''s luck!" I say while brandishing my hand holding the gun. The men instinctively duck as my hand points towards their direction. They look like they are doing the human wave. That admittedly put a smile on my face. "Put the gun down my love." Says Niki as he steps in my direction extending his arms to take the gun from me. Geeez what do they think I will do to them? Shoot them? Bang! Oh my god! Horror overwhelmed my heart as blood gushes out of Niki''s inner thigh. It instantly flowed down his Armani pants I feel like I am going to faint. I just shot my husband and he is bleeding to his death. ~ "Niki, baby oh my god! I''m so sorry. Wake up, baby! Niki!" I''m softly pecking his face to keep him conscious. We are in the SUV on our way to the clinic. Alexei is to Niki''s right looking calm and following us from behind. The bleeding has already stopped after putting some pressure on his gunshot wound. I can''t believe I actually shot my husband. I swear to the heavens that I did not mean to do this to him. "Niki please, Dr. Marcus said you have to stay awake until we reach the clinic. Please don''t close your eyes baby." He lightly groans and winces in pain, "Babe, kiss me?" He says. "Okay." I palmed his face and kissed him on his lips."Stay awake okay?" "I don''t know baby, kiss me one more time?" He asks. "Okay." I kissed him passionately this time. "Like that? Is that okay?" "Uh, yah like that--- can I smell your breasts?" He says faintly. "Smell my breasts? Okay. Here." I knelt facing him and I slowly pulled his face to rest on my breasts. "Is that okay?" "Oh wow. Smells good. Lose the shirt please?" He again requests like an innocent teenage boy. This time I noticed that Alexei is stifling a snort. It is then that realized that my friggin husband is just taking advantage of the situation. How dare he do this to me when I am actually having a nervous breakdown! p! "How could you! I''m going crazy over here and all you can think of is your dick!" Alexei was not able to hold it any longer, he lets out augh. "Ow baby." He says while he''s brushing his face with his palm. Well, look at that. He is not bothered by his gunshot wound but he felt the sting of my p. Chapter 5 Chapter 5 Belle''s POV "No! A bullet has just been removed from your thigh! You are not fit to stand let alone travel to another continent. Tell him, Dr. Marcus." I said firmly dismissing Niki who is now insisting to still leave for Colombia despite his wound. The man could not even stand without help from his brother. How does he expect to attend the Conglomerate meeting in his condition? "Madame Volkov is ri-" Says the poor Doctor who is obviously halted by Niki''s death stare. My husband''s piercing green eyes instantly disconnected when he noticed that I caught him doing his ''I''m the Boss'' thing again. "Leave us." Ordered the stubborn man. Dr. Marcus and the other boys exited the room. Only me, Alexei, and Niki are left inside. "This is not up for discussion Niki!" I eximed, standing my ground. "Babe,e here." He says, tapping his uninjured thigh. I wanted to protest but then I thought that I am the very reason why he''s in this situation. Not to mention the bonus p I gave him on the way to the clinic. I slowly slid in between his thighs and sat on the other one carefully. He winced in pain but at the same time, he held me tight around my waist then nted kisses on my chest. I then wrap my arms around his neck as tears threaten to fall from my eyes. "I''m so sorry Niki. I never meant for this to happen. I swear it was an ident." "I''m not sure baby. I was an inch closer to not having future Volkovs." He replies, referring to the wound very close to his balls. "So fucking close to shooting nk rounds all your life, brother." Inserts Alexei, making light of the situation. I know what''s going to happen next. He''s going to use the guilt trip on me so he can make his way. And he is going to do that through his beautiful dark green eyes plus the unwavering support of his brother, the other love of my life. I am not going to fall prey to this. I am not going to look straight to his eyes. I swear I''m not. 20 seconds and a jet ne rideter.... ''Buenos dias! Wee to Colombia!'' Greet three women wearing teenie tiny bikinis and colorful flower gands. And guess who''s not ashamed to show his fascination towards thedy greeters? "Dimi boy, I hope you listened to your teacher during Spanish sh." Said Alexei teasingly. Smiles are stered on all of the boys'' faces while looking at the women swinging their hips, dancing while putting the gands around our necks one by one. Yuri, Boris, Dimitri, Alexei''s men, and our remaining bodyguards, including their Bosses are clearly enjoying the view quite well. I just shake my head in defeat-- men. "Niki, Alexei would you want me to practice shooting again?" I said calmly while giving them the crazy girlfriend re. "God I like it when you''re territorial. Turns me the fuck on." Whispered Alexei. "I think I already took one for the team. Your shooting practice is suspended indefinitely." Added Niki. I just giggle inside. Who would have thought something good wille out in identally shooting your husband? It keeps them on their feet for some good reason. Not literally of course because-- injured. Geez. After the short weing and warm reception, Niki nods to signal his men and just like that, the boys went back to business. Until now I am still amazed at how Niki handles being a Boss to the Russian Mafia men. His women and went ahead to the reception of the Coco Cabana -- the name of this exclusive hotel and luxury country club -- to confirm our arrangements and to make sure that the demands of the Volkov Mafia have been met. Apparently, this ce is owned by the host of this year''s Conglomerate meeting, the De Alba''s. The top crime families are staying at the twin vacation houses next to each other while all other families will upy the other houses situated inside the several hundred acres of this exclusive club. There''s a whole exclusive street where the temporary residents are Bosses of gangs and criminal organizations and their families. In the jet on the way here, while Niki was getting some needed rest, I had the chance to ask Alexei questions about the Conglomerate. He told me that Antonio De Alba, the former Boss of the Cabana Cartel and Papa Vyachev had a long-standing rift. Everyone in the underground criminal world knows about this. They are each other''s worst nemesis. Antonio De Alba nted his roots first in the southern and western hemispheres of New York while Papa Vyachev, fresh from Russia, made his name as a contraband Kingpin in the Northern and Eastern part. They toppled every standing gangs and mobs going against them in their own respective hemispheres until they rose to the top. They made alliances with the surviving gangs which eventually resulted in many gannd and mob wars between the Volkov Mafia and the Cabana Cartel. This went on until a massive crackdown on their businesses was made by the government, the target of which was Antonio De Alba and Vyachev Roustam Volkov themselves. This created worry and panic in the underground criminal world. New and old gangs scrambling to take advantage of the situation, the two Bosses did not have a choice but to forge an agreement. They agreed to stay away from each other''s businesses and pledged to the mutual existence of the crime families. This marked the beginning of the Conglomerate. The Russian Mafia and the Cabana Cartel being at the top management have two votes each whenever the Conglomerate decides on something while all other criminal organizations have one vote each. However, the bad blood between Vyachev and Antonio remained despite the facade of peace. They still hated andpeted against each other. Alexei, with a hint of arrogance and pride, revealed to me that Papa Vyachev came out as the victor against Antonio because, for one, Vyachev has more powerful alliances, which means he gets to make crucial decisions backed by the votes of the majority of the Bosses. And two, as petty as it may sound, theypeted on who gets to have a male heir first. Niki was born several hours before Antonio''s son was born as well. Like, they literally have the same birthdays, only that my husband was born first. I nowpletely believe Niki when he says Volkov always wins because he was for real born a winner. Alexei told me that I should spend more time with Matushka so she can tell me more of these stories. But then the conversation turned a little dark when it came to the point where Alexei had to recall the death of Viktor and Vyachev and how initially they thought that it was the De Alba''s who had them killed in retaliation to the death of Antonio, whose body was found dead on a fishing boat. Until now, Sebastian Axel De Alba, the son of Antonio thinks that Vyachev was behind the death of his father since no one except the Russian Mafia Boss had the resources, the motive, and the gut to kill another drug lord. N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content. I asked if it was really Papa Vyachev who had Antonio De Alba killed but Alexei said that Papa Vyachev denied having to do with Antonio''s death. I did not have the chance to further ask more questions because Niki demanded my snuggles when he woke up from his pill-induced sleep-- which I kind of forced into him because the man is an unstoppable workaholic. Dimitri came back escorted by another man who was standing behind the reception. He is a little taller than Dimitri, with a bigger build and he''s wearing a tuxedo, eyesses, and sports a prim and formal overall appeal. He greets Niki and Alexei and he looks like he knows my boys already. He then escorted our entourage towards the receiving area of the hotel where everyone has to show up for a short formality before going to the respective vacation houses. "Mr. Volkov, may we roll out a wheelchair for your convenience?" Asked the man who weed us. I''m sure that he meant well in offering a little help but I can tell that my husband did not appreciate his suggestion. "No, thank you. I would have had it written down in the list of my demands if I needed it, didn''t I?" My husband answered dismissively. "Uh I apologize Mr.--" "We would like to proceed with the authentication process as soon as possible. We have had a long day." Interrupts Alexei. As per usual, Niki and Alexei''s mere presence turned some heads as we walk towards the receiving area reserved for the Russian Mafia. I held on tight to Niki as he carefully sits down. It''s pretty obvious that the man is in pain even if he tries hard not to show it. "Can you hold this for a while, my love?" Asked my husband, handing me his cane. This is the exact cane I saw in one of the pictures of Papa Vyachev back at our brownstone house. It has a gold wolf''s head handle, hardwood body, and gold tip lining below. Niki is very particr with this cane because he doesn''t allow anybody to touch this aside from his brother and me. Yuri was very careful when he handed this to Niki back in the clinic. It was well preserved inside a long box. I understand and respect how Niki reveres this piece of object. This is his father''s cane. The man that he looked up to the most and I''m afraid that he''s also the man that Niki has be. "Of course Niki." I answered. "Thank you baby." He said while lightly brushing the back of his hand on my cheek. I bite my lip in embarrassment, I know I''m slowly turning red. There are people around us but Niki could care less about them. Just like Alexei, if he wants to be sweet and touchy he will be sweet and touchy in front of other people without the usual fear of being emascted. That is how sure these two are with their identities and sexualities. Which is such a turn on, to be honest. "Niki..." I said, eyeing a rectangr attache box in front of us. It has some sort of a small screen outside with a tiny red light on. "Mr. Volkov, you requested to add another person to have ess to your holdings, is that right?" The man asked. "Yes, I want to add my wife to the list." Niki answered, gesturing his hand towards me. "As you wish. Very well, Mrs. Volkov, it is a pleasure to meet you. Can you please ce your right palm over the screen and wait for it to finish scanning, the same with the left palm, your voice sample and then we will proceed with the eye scan." The man continued. "What''s this for?" I asked Niki since I have no single clue as to what exactly is happening. "It''s just a formality. You will have ess to the assets of the Russian Mafia that are under the Conglomerate''s safekeeping. These assets are kept in ssified locations around the world. You, my brother, and I are the only ones who have ess." Niki answered. I can sense that this is important to him so I gave what was required of me for this ''formality''. And then a smaller attache with an emblem of the wolf''s head was presented to my husband. It was kept locked as he hands it to Yuri. Our entourage then headed to one of the bigger vacation houses inside thepound where other crime families will also reside during this two-day event. As we near our designated vacation house, members of other crime families would take notice of our SUVs pulling over in the driveway. We did not immediately get inside because Yuri and the other boys inspected the whole ce first and checked for bugs. Not that I''m new to these security checks and precautions, in fact, this is just normal protocol back when my father was still the president of Pwi. What took my curiosity however while waiting in the SUV in the driveway was the crate-like enclosure that Alexei and his men are unloading in the garage. "Niki, what''s that? Did we bring that from New York?" I asked as I hand him a pill to take for his wound. "Yes baby, those are Petrushka and Valkyre. They are our-- pets." Niki answered, sounding a little unsure about calling whatever those in the crate -- our pets. "Pets? Yours and Alexei''s?" "Yes, and yours as well." He answered. "Yah? What are Petrushka and Valkyre?" I asked in excitement. "Ugh...babe, what''s the color of the pill that you gave me?" He asked as he forces to wink and open his eyes. "Blue for your--- oh my god! Niki I''m so sorry." Shit shit shit shit. I gave him the sleeping pill instead of the pain meds. Oh my. Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Belle''s POV "When I said that she will be the death of me, I never thought that she''d make it as her life''s purpose." Niki whispers. I can hear the muffledughsing from Alexei to my left side. I can feel the bed is moving and shaking as he continues cracking up to his brother''s words. My eyes are closed but I''m awake and can perfectly hear the two talking to each other, on top of me. Niki and Alexei would often do this back in New York in the middle of the night or early in the morning. For some reason, these two find it rxing to whisper talk while they are on both sides, thinking that I''m sound asleep. They would kiss me, touch me and just inly stare at me while doing this weird thing. You know that feeling when someone is staring and breathing on your face even if your eyes are closed? Often I just go back to sleep when they are talking business and stuff but most nights or mornings when they are being naughty, I tend to listen, because I really don''t have a choice since they are talking while sandwiching me in the middle. "I mean, how fucking hard is it to distinguish the blue pill from the white one?" Niki added while nting a soft kiss on my lips. "Hahaha! She shot you then drugged you twice on this trip. You are fucking abused!" Alexei eximed with utmost glee. "The fuck is funny with that?" Niki asked obviously bordering pissed towards his brother. "Everything." Alexei retorted. "Fuck off." Niki barks back. "No, you fuck off. You have a meeting with Juan Pablo De Alba next door five minutes ago." "Let him wait. I already sent word that I''m not going toe unless my meeting is with his nephew Axel." Niki replied. "You know he''s noting. He fucking hates us and he''s as hard-headed as you." Alexei stated as if he''s really certain. "Yuri has information about Axel''s whereabouts. The man is talking to Artan, forging some kind of a business deal." "You wiped out his connections and threaten anyone who will do business with him. What did you expect from Artan? He''s not just gonna sit around and do nothing. Now Axel will have Artan''s alliance vote. Not that I''m worried about it. We still have the majority of the Bosses." Alexei stated as a matter of factly. "And worry we shall not." "But Matushka wants us to patch things up with Artan." "I''m not going to bow down to anyone especially not to that bastard, except my queen that is. I would kneel, crawl, slither and lick for this woman." Niki said stubbornly and naughtily. If only I can roll my eyes right now. The man is at it again. Alexei softly chuckled, "Insane motherfucker." The information about Artan making alliances with Niki''s rival however bothered me. I understand what Niki did was too much and somehow I can''t help but feel responsible for whatever happened. ~ Niki, Alexei, and the other boys went out for a meeting with the other Bosses who are allies of the Volkov Mafia. A sweet note with red daisies and baby''s breath was left next to me on my bed. I decided to message the two while I''m in the privy. Mrs_Volkov: ???? I_will_eat_your_pussy: ?? ThouShallBeSpanked: ?? Mrs_Volkov: ?? I_will_eat_your_pussy: What''s my baby doing? Mrs_Volkov: ?????? I_will_eat_your_pussy: ?? Mrs_Volkov: Hahaha! ThouShallBeSpanked: Nasty woman. Mrs_Volkov: @ThouShallBeSpanked ?? Mrs_Volkov: Im eating icecream after this. Be good. Ive got eyes on you. I_will_eat_your_pussy: Yes maam. Alexei''s looking at some ass though. ThouShallBeSpanked: Hey not true! Mrs_Volkov: Hmmm... Look all you want boys. I know you''re still gonnae back to this booty. Soo... I_will_eat_your_pussy: ?? ThouShallBeSpanked: ?? Mrs_Volkov: Go back soon or else ill finish the icecream all to myself. I''m already sleepy but I''m also hungry so I went downstairs to find some food but something caught my attention in the garage just beside the kitchen. I then saw the crates that were carefully unloaded here when we arrived and they are all opened or somehow dismantled. My heart instantly skipped a beat when I heard growling sounds from the back. ~ The scene when Niki, Alexei, and his men went back to the vacation house after their meeting. Niki instantly inquired about Belle but nobody saw the Madame went out of her room yet. "Boss, the wolves are out of their cages. They must have escaped." Says one of the men who was left to look after Belle. Niki and Alexei looked at each other as they recall Belle telling them that she''s going to get ice All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. cream after their chat. They ran to the kitchen and ordered Yuri and Boris to find Belle around the vacation house. "She''s not here!" Alexei eximed when they reached the kitchen. Niki snarled and grabbed one of his men by his cor forcefully, "I swear to god if anything happens to your Madame, I''m going to kill all of you!" "She''s not in any of the room upstairs." Boris interrupted. "Call the conglomerate and find my wife now!" Ordered Niki furiously. Yuri was about to pick up the dedicated phoneline to the conglomerate but was halted when Niki got a cellphone call. "I found what-- or more appropriately -- who you''re looking for." Artan said arrogantly the moment Niki answered the call. "Where is she!? What did you do to her?!" Niki clenches his jaw in anger. "Volkov, tsk tsk tsk you know I would nevery a hand on her." Artan answered. "Then tell me where she is. Do you have her?!" "Common garden, backside of the vacation house. Axel is here." "What the fuck is he doing there with Belle?!" Niki gestured his men toe with him as he makes his way towards the back of the vacation house where a garden is situated. It''s amon meeting ce for the exclusive use of the Bosses of the Conglomerate. "I don''t know. You can ask him yourself. He was already here with Belle when I arrived." Artan replied. When Niki and his men reached the garden, amusement and awe beheld them. Yuri, Boris, Dimitri, especially the Volkov brothers looked like they have been charmed by the beautiful sight in front of them. Belle is sleeping in one of the wooden benches where flower vines gracefully dance like small ballerinas in the night as the soft wind blows. Fireflies float in the air,pleting the romantic mood of the spectral garden. The two big wolves surround her as if protecting her with their own lives. The queen of the Russian Mafia isying her head on Petrushka''s stomach-- the gentler wolf of the two. She sleeps peacefully on his warm and snowlike fur while he maintains his protective instinct. Valkyre, the alpha, is standing proud and mighty as if making known that whoever will dare step inside his domain shall know of his wrath and power. Artan Bogdani and Axel De Alba are on the wooden table several feet away from where Belle and the wolves are situated. They are having drinks when Niki and Alexei arrived. Chapter 7 Chapter 7 Niki, Alexei, Artan and Axel De Alba in the garden. Axel: You married a woman who is the exact duplicate of your sister, the fianc¨¦ of your adopted brother Alexei and the mother of Artan Bogdani''s daughter. Fucking circus show you have here Volkov. Niki: You pursued my sister many times, you kidnapped her and brought her here in Colombia and you tried to domesticate her to be your wife. Alexei: Congrattions, you''re a regr member of the circus, De Alba. Artan: Okay, that''s enough. We are not going to have this conversation about the woman we all loved. The three went silent for a little while Axel: Agreed. Niki: What are you doing here with my wife Axel? Axel: Maybe you should ask your wife instead Volkov. And while you''re at it, ask her why she stole the Italian gto from my kitchen counter when it was supposed to be served for my guests and why she raided my freezer and took a whole bucket. Ask her why she took my horse for a ride. Also, why there''s a dent in my Camaro that was peacefully parked behind the Vi. Niki and Alexei just smile in response, behind their minds they thought - ''That''s my girl''. Axel: I see that you find this amusing. Alexei: You''re butthurt because of icecream? Axel: I am fucking pissed! She disrespected my things and my ce. She disrespected me. Niki: She doesn''t even know you! And besides, she''s a Volkov, she can disrespect whoever she wants, whenever she wants. Artan: (Smirks) Okay Axel, we know you have OCD but you have to understand, she has cravings she cannot control. Axel wrinkled his eyebrows Niki: (Looks proud) My wife is pregnant. She is pregnant with my twins. Artan: Really? Twins? Niki: Yes, here I have a picture of the sonogram. (Swipes his phone and pointed to Artan the dots in the circle) (Niki and Artan have already been distracted. Alexei''s smirk widens seeing his brother and Artan forget about the fact that they still hate each other, Axel on the other hand gave up on getting pissed.) Axel: And him? (Nods towards Yuri who is carrying Belle in his arms back to their rest house. Dimitri and Boris are putting the wolves back on their leashes.) Alexei: What do you think? (Axel shakes his head and drinks the scotch from a square ss) Axel: You fucking got shot Volkov? (Smiles in amusement then turns to Artan as if asking if he has something to do with it.) Artan: Nope. If it was me, I wouldn''t have missed. That''s some sloppy shooting right there. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Axel: Ah, so someone in New York -- Niki: (interrupts Axel) People know better than to cross me. You and Artan know that. Every fucking soul in this organization knows that. Axel: I''m a De Alba, I can cross you at will. And who could forget my man here almost fucking stole your wife from you. That''s some hardcore crossing right there. Niki: And look where it got your friend. He came running to you like a sewer rat looking for mum''s milk. His underground business had already been crushed to thy kingdome if not for my wife. Axel: Wow. So, Volkov junior is bowing down to a pussy? Niki: Still better than De Alba junior bowing down to an Albanian dick. (Axel was about to lung towards Niki but Artan stopped him. Niki has a smirk stered on his face. Alexei lets out a smirk as well, his hands are inside his pockets, looking arrogantly handsome as always. Their men are just around the garden, observing the Big Bosses'' insults and banters against each other.) ~ Belle''s POV I woke up at 1:00 o''clock in the morning feeling famished. I feel like I was in slumber for a very long time and now the two tiny wolves growing inside me have awakened just to eat. The loves of my life are both asleep. Niki isying on his stomach on my left while Alexei is to my right, spooning me, his left hand is groping my left boob and his face is buried on my hair. The two are only wearing their boxers and nothing else. Such a sexy scene to wake up to. Still, I know better than to poke the daddy wolves. The sexual appetite of these two is beyond belief not to mention that one of their best moves is sleepy sex. But food is my priority now. So eat now, maybe sexter. Freak. I kissed Alexei on his neck and inhaled him deeply. Gosh. He smells so friggin good. I run my nose all over his soft beard and smelled him like a chipmunk. Hmmm! Icy cologne with a pint of green citrus. I slowly touched the tip of my tongue on his slightly scruffy face and lick him like icecream. Yum! I then forced my tongue in between his lips and bit him softly. A smile slowly formed on his face, he wraps his arm around my neck and pulled me towards him even tighter. "Hey." Alexei said in his uber-sexy and hoarse bedroom voice. His eyes are slightly opened as he rains kisses on my lips. "Urm, Alexei, I can''t breathe." I tried to mutter in between soft small gasps for air. He just chuckles and then pulls me on top of his chest as heys on his back. He brushes the strands of hair covering my face as he looks at me with those amazingly beautiful hazel eyes. We both chuckle as a soft snore interrupts our eye contact. It''s Niki and the man looks like a peaceful baby sleeping. My poor Niki, since we arrived here, he and his brother have been busy with Mafia business, meeting here and there, always making sure that everything is in order and as nned. Also, the fact that he''s basically drugged with anti-pain meds so he can still function despite his gunshot wound. I am so sorry Niki I rested my head on Alexei''s chest. He then wraps his arm around my back while his other hand is groping my ass. "I love you Alexei." "I love you, my princess." "Your penis is growing hard." He just chuckles in response. "He does that when you''re near him. He can''t control himself." "It''s fine. I''m used to it." I answered as a matter of factly. This time, a full-blownugh escaped his mouth. He continues rubbing my bum, it actually made me feel more rxed. This might be my new favorite thing. "I like it, don''t stop Alexei." "Oh, I like doing this more than you can imagine." He replied. I just can sense that a smile is stered on his face. "Uhm Alexei, who carried me back to our room? I remember I was in the garden with the wolves." "Yuri, your secret admirer." He answered without a trace of humor in his voice. I smack him on his shoulder. "Stop that." "It''s true. Yuri is hardcore in love with you." He replies. "Yuri is family." I retorted. "Family or not, I''m still gonna kill him if he crosses my line again." "Alexei." "I''m not going to discuss this with you, woman! My mind is made up. He kisses you again, he dies. He pursues you again, he dies. Simple as that." Since when did killing other people be simple? Oh wait. I''m married to the Boss of the Russia Mafia and in love and in bed with his brother. I''m pregnant with two Volkovs. I''m in reality a Mafia wife. Who am I kidding. I pulled my head up and raised my left eyebrow, "So I''m just your ''woman'' now?" "You''re the woman of my life. You''re the woman that I''m in love with. You''re the woman I want to spend the remaining days or years of my life with. You''re the woman I want to see before I go to sleep at night and when I wake up the morning after. You''re the woman I want to have a bunch of kids with. You''re the woman I want to be with when I grow old and until my penis could not stand on its own, although highly unlikely to happen because of you--- you get my point. We''re in for the long haul baby." I was not able to respond. That was undeniably sweet. I just buried my face on his neck. No words can exin how much I love you, Alexei. "Uhm, Alexei, I''m sorry for taking Petrushka and Valkyre out of their cages and sleeping in the garden. I was just so sleepy and the wolves'' fur was so soft and they were so cuddly. Did you know that they already love me the first time they saw me? When I took them out of their cages they were all over me. I fell in love with them in an instant as well." "Hmm, sounds familiar." He said. I just smiled in response knowing fully well what he''s saying. Sounds really like what happened to us. "Did you fall in love with me the first time you saw me?" Alexei asks which he quickly took back. "I know that you fell in love with my brother first and you love him more than anyone--" There he goes again. He thinks that my love for him is not the same as with his brother. That I love Niki more than him. I know in my heart that I love him as much as I love Niki. That is the truth. I cannot bepletely happy without him in my life. I have realized this fact when we broke up. It was one of the lowest points in my life. I was devastated and it almost ruined my rtionship with his brother. I was forced to sit on his torso as I covered his mouth with my hands tightly. I am so close to snapping in anger. "Shut your mouth and listen to me Alexei Viktor Volkov! Let me make myself perfectly clear!" An obvious surprise can be seen in the man''s eyes. "Alright, this should be good." Inserted the voice of the devil Niki. He must have been awakened by our whisper talks. He switches themp on next to him and hugged a pillow whileying on his side, looking at Alexei and me. A smile is stered on his face. His eyes are half shut. "Shush Niki! Although, ---" I climbed towards him and kissed him on his lips before going back to palming Alexei''s mouth. Niki winks at me naughtily. "Yes I fell in love with your brother first, but that doesn''t make my love for you any lesser! Remember at our old home at the brownstone, the first time that we fought and you pushed me away? It made me realize that I did not want to lose you, ever! The thought of you being away from me, with us, scared me to death. It made me realize that I have been in love with you, I just did not have the courage to admit it to myself and to Niki. I could not admit to myself that I was so damn jealous when other women touch you or even looks at you! I hated the fact that you were free to go out anytime to god knows where there are women. You are mine and I do not intend to share you with anyone else!" A squeal instantly escaped my mouth when Alexei wrestled me--albeit carefully-- to make mey on my back. He then rains kisses on my lips, all over my face and my neck, his hands pinning mine on both sides. "Alexei....stop. Ah...Alexei..I said stop. Not now, I''m hungry." I''m squirming as tiny electric volts run through my body. "Hmm not now? Excuse me mydy but what did you think I was gonna do?" He retorted, feigning innocence. I was about to get so friggin embarrassed but then a soft snore inserted timely. We were both silenced and when we looked at the source, Niki is again sleeping like a baby. The anti-pain meds and the blue pill once again prevailed. Alexei and I just chuckled in unison. "Do you want to eat?" Alexei asked while slowly removing himself from on top of me. "Yes, please? I want Mcdonald''s." "Colombian Mcdonald''s? "Si, Se?or" I replied with glittering eyes. "Okay, wait for me downstairs. I''ll just go get Diana." He kisses me on my lips then grabs his pants, shirt, and leather jacket from the chair. He moved so fast I wasn''t able to investigate further about this Diana. "Oh, and princess, don''t wear a skirt, just some pants or shorts." He said, his head just popped on the side of the door then he''s gone again. What is wrong with that man? I just shook my head in disbelief. Ill handle the Diana situationter. I then proceeded to the closet where the maid has arranged all our belongings. Yep, some of our helpers from New York also came with us as per Niki''s orders. Apparently, Niki has some serious trust issues when ites to the host of this year''s Conglomerate meeting. He won''t even trust the local home helpers assigned to the Volkov Mafia. Chapter 8 Chapter 8 Belle''s POV I chose to wear the high waist denim jeans, tight ck off-shoulder crop top, and my high heels--which I won''t be able to wear theseing months for some obvious and pregnant reasons--that is why I''m going to wear this for as long as I can. I tied my hair into a ponytail and left a few thin strands hanging on both sides of my face. "I love you so much, Niki. We''ll be back in a while. I''ll bring takeaway." I then moved my husband slowly under the covers and kissed him on his lips before going downstairs. The men assigned to guard during the night are still awake and alert, scattered around and some are inside the house ying cards. When they noticed me they instantly halted and said good night to me one by one. The awkward silence continued as I pour water into my ss. To not prolong the agony lingering in the air I tried to drink my water fast. "Madame, the boss Alexei said he will wait for you in the driveway." One of the men said. "Oh okay. Thank you. Niki is upstairs sleeping. Please don''t wake him unless it''s an emergency. Your Boss needs all the rest he can get. Yuri is in charge. Also--one of you has two deuces and an ace of diamonds." I said with a straight face. All of them instantly looked at the guy next to me with amused faces as if trying to confirm what I said. The poor man tried to make a poker face at first but eventually gave in. He scratched his head and revealed his card in defeat. The menughed and the awkwardness in the air was slowly dispelled. When I went outside, on the driveway I saw Yuri and Alexei who is now trying to wear his ck leather gloves. A red huge Ducati bike is being checked by one of the men as Alexei appears to be talking to Yuri. "Hey. Are we riding this tonight? Wow." I asked as my eyes marvel at how beautiful and impressive the red bike looks. "Indeed, she''s beautiful. This is Diana. She''s gonna take us wherever you want to go tonight." I will not say that it was a relief to know that Diana isn''t a real person, I just giggle inside. Reminds me so much of Dn and his car in the garage, Mary. This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. "You shipped this from New York?" I asked as I run my fingers on its leather seat. "No. I bought this one here when we arrived. I left Jenny, Laura, Shi, Michelle, and Christine in New York, couldn''t risk seeing them getting scratches on the way here." He answered like his bikes are his real and serious business. Hmm- men and their toys. "Oh, so there are a lot of women left in New York. I hope they don''t get sad when their Daddy is away." I said teasingly. Deep inside me is tempted to ask why am I knowing this fact about him just now, but I''m afraid I would be pped again with ''You are so focused on my brother you did not even bother to ask what myst name is'' kind of statements. We''ve been making significant progress, I don''t want to go back to zero with my rtionship with Alexei again. The love of my life wraps his arm around the small of my back and pulled me towards him to kiss. "Say the word Daddy one more time and your sexy ass will immediately go back to our room for some long overdue punishment." I bit my lower lip as I try so hard to not take him up for his challenge. My stomach is rambling, sexy time can wait. "Okay Da-- Alexei..." I said, acting innocently. He chuckles as he ces the other helmet on me. "Yuri, take care of Niki please?" I said as I nce in his direction. "We''ll be back in an hour." Alexei says, dismissing Yuri. The man just nods and continues looking at me. ~ Text message conversation between Niki and Alexei when Belle went out of the room while Alexei was preparing Diana. Alexei: Thanks, brother. Niki: She''s in love with you. You have to believe that, brother. In her eyes, we are one. Alexei: I know, but let me just rify that women are more attracted to me than they are to you. Technically, they just dig you because you''re richer. Niki: Airheaded fuck. Alexei: *snorts* Niki: Take care of her. Keep a low profile. Were not in our territory, remember that. Alexei: Sure will. Now go back to sleep. You have a lot of catching up to do. ~ Belle''s POV Alexei is looking at me with that unbelievably handsome smile on his gorgeous face. I''m munching on a tray of french fries and this huge ass cheeseburger with a special hot sauce. We did not find a Mcdonald''s open 24 hours near the Coco Cabana Hotel and Country Club, so Alexei and I went back and settled ourselves in one of the three restaurants/bar in the hotel. It''s an open Menu so we can order whatever we want. Alexei is drinking some vodka while I munch on my food. There are only several people in the restaurant since it''s already way past 1 am so I''m kind of not embarrassed to eat anymore. "Enjoying your food?" He says while he''s taking a picture of me. I just make the okay sign as my answer. All of a sudden and to my utter horror, I feel like everything got stuck in my throat and chest, I''m actually choking! Alexei instantly scooted over on my side and made me drink a ss of water. "Are you okay? Take it easy. Damn! Choking on your own food." Alexei said as he adjusts my napkin. I tap my chest a couple of times in relief. That was close. Alexei on the other hand is already stifling a "Choking on your cock is still better." I retorted. Alexei''s hazel eyes twinkled and his lips parted to what I just said. I myself am surprised by my bluntness. Where in the world did thate from? Freak "Wow, babe." He said as if waiting for me to say or do something. "No." I pushed his cheek away as I struggle to keep my embarrassment at bay. "I''m just gonna go to the privy then we go back to the Vi." Alexei just smiles arrogantly, knowing fully well that I''m just trying to evade the situation that I never meant to put myself into. Just when I was able to stand, my heart skipped a beat as cold water drenched my chest and all over my stomach. There are also cubes of ice falling down the floor. "Oooh, Sorry. I did not see you there." Says the woman who is holding an empty ss in her hand. She then looked at the group of women seated in a booth on the back and smiled at them like she''s please by what she just did. At this point, I feel like my body is shaking, and also shivering because of the cold water. I have experienced this kind of situation before. I know this very well. I am so tired of being victimized by these kinds of women! Who the hell do they think they are? I saw ck and just when I was about to reach for a ss of water from our table, Alexei slid his ss full of vodka on the rocks-- towards me. We met eye to eye for a split second and then he nods at me as if supporting whatever the hell I am about to do. Not a single drop of vodka was left in the ss when I threw it all--not on her chest but on her disrespecting face. "Oooh, I am so not sorry. Get out of my way or I''ll pour another round of Russian Vodka on you and your friends'' heads, one by one." The reaction on the woman''s face is indescribable. It''s so friggin funny! Her eyes are wide open, mouth wide open and she''s now raising her hands in front of her as she''s about to jump at me for a catfight. The women from the booth stood up from their seats and wipe their friend''s drenched face and hair. "Princess, let''s go?" Says Alexei who is now standing beside me. "Alex! She did this on purpose! Look what she''s done to ra!" Says the other woman wiping this ra''s dress. "Alex! The wives of the Conglomerate will not take this blindly!" Says the other one. Huh, so they know Alexei. That exins the aggression towards me. She or one or any one of them might have been with my boys. I am not surprised. "Ladies, I have seen what happened. You targeted her. You''re lucky she''s not shooting her gun at you after that stunt. You honestly don''t want to be messing with her and her gun." Alexei answered like a proud daddy. "Targeted her? We don''t even know her!" ra answered. "She''s my wife and Volkov''s wife, she can have all of you banished from the Conglomerate if she wants." Apparent surprise can be seen on their faces like they can''t believe what Alexei just revealed to them. "As long as my father is a member of the organization, I am entitled to be in the Conglomerate. It''s in the rules." Says ra. Alexei''s lips are pulled to the side while looking at the women as if owning them. "ra, do not push me or Volkov to do the work because it''s going to be ugly. For your sake and your family''s sake, you do not do this to her again. You do not disrespect her. You do not touch not even a single strand of her hair." Alexei said with all that arrogant certainty. Chapter 9 Chapter 9 Scene when Belle was at the back of Axel De Alba''s Vi stealing the Italian gto that was about to be served to the guests. Axel was having a small party with the family of the Mafia Bosses who are in alliance with the Cabana Cartel. One of his men approaches the table where Axel was having some drinks. Security: (Leans over to whisper to Axel) Boss, we have a situation in the kitchen. Axel: (Wrinkles his eyebrows) Kitchen? I pay you to do your damn jobs and now you want me to handle a situation in the fucking kitchen? Security: Uh Boss, it''splicated. You need to see this yourself. Axel stood up from his seat and buttoned his jacket. He is so close to losing his temper, in his mind, this better be worth his time or else, he''s going to be very pissed. He wondered why they had to go to the security room instead of the kitchen. They are looking at the Security: (Points at theptop.) This was taken less than five minutes ago. In thetv footage taken from the back of the Vi near the garden, Belle is holding Petrushka and Valkyre on a leash. She then ties the two on the nearby tree before making her way inside the yard of Axel''s Vi. She is then seen to be petting a ck stallion owned by Axel. She''s brushing its mane and hugging it as if the horse has already been tamed by her. As the video zooms in to Belle, Axel could not believe his eyes. He sat frozen in his seat. Security: This is why I needed you to see this for yourself Boss. Axel: Switch to live footage. Where is she now? Find her. The security camera found Belle, sitting on the hood of Axel''s Camaro. She''s casually eating the gto she took from the kitchen counter near one of the windows. Axel attempted to go outside to see personally if what he''s seeing right now is true. That there is a woman who looks eerily like Yelena. The woman he once loved. However, as he nears the door on the way out back, his uncle, Juan Pablo De Alba stopped and warned him. Juan Pablo: I am asking you not to do this Axel. Axel: (Halted his steps) You knew about this? About her? Juan Pablo: We know enough about her. She''s Volkov''s wife. She''s not Yelena. Axel: (Turns around and stood face to face with his uncle) You knew about this and not once have you ever mentioned it to me? Juan Pablo: I did not tell you because I know this is exactly how you would react. You will trigger another mob war against the Russians all because you''re smitten to one of their own! You will lose your mind over a girl you can never have! The Conglomerate will not survive if you and Volkov push us to the brink. Axel: Who are you to decide for me? For my life? You are not my father! Juan Pablo: I am looking after you and the business that your father paid for his life with. Volkov is someone we should not be poking around. That man is fucking crazy! He is crazier than your old man and his old manbined! He will not hesitate to drag us all down to hell with him if you touch this girl. It''s not worth it Axel! Axel: Stop pretending like you care Tiyo! You are the reason why Yelena left me. We could have been happy if you did not intervene! If she was with me, she never would have died! Juan Pablo: Axel, she was never in love with you! You know to whom her heart really belongs to. She was in love with Alexei! Axel: Shut up! You do not know a single thing about my rtionship with Yelena. Juan Pablo: Don''t do this again Axel. She''s not Yelena. Her name is Belle and she''s Volkov''s wife! Yelena is dead. She''s gone! Axel snarls, still looking livid as he squares with his uncle, Juan Pablo. ~ Belle''s POV "Nope, I''m fine here. I don''t see any floaters. That pool is for tall people and I''m just 5"4. Don''t they have a kiddie pool here somewhere?" I say as I try not to get distracted from the fact that Alexei is already taking off his shirt, revealing his perfectly chiseled arms, his six-packs and-- good lord-- his tattoos. He just smiles arrogantly as he catches me ogling him. Geez, is it getting hot in here or what? Must be Alexei''s leather jacket he made me wear after that incident in the restaurant. We are in a private pool in the garden near our Vi and the De Alba''s Vi. Turns out, only the two families are allowed to be in this pool except by invitation. Alexei jumped in the pool wearing only his swim briefs. He dives down and then swims up--leaning his back on the edge of the pool, looking at me with his piercing hazel eyes and his naughty smile. Geez. Why so sexy Alexei? I''m one lucky woman. "Come on, princess. Jump. I got you!" He says, extending his arms to catch me. "You''re wearing swim briefs. You nned this and yet you failed to mention it to me? I could have worn a bikini Alexei!" "Exactly my point. Take off your clothes and jump baby girl." He answered without any hint of regret on his face. I parted my lips in disbelief. "Skinny dipping?" "Haha! Well, I''d like to call it curvy dipping. unt those sexy curves and show the moon how enthralling you are, my beautifuldy." N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content. I just shake my head to his lunacy, "Vodka does you good huh?" I retorted. "Truth is, love does me, good princess." He replies. I bit my lower lip as he looks at me seriously as hell. I can actually feel my face heat up. "Well, you''re wearing briefs, that''s not f--" He did not even let me finish my statement, he just took off his wet briefs and threw them out of the pool. "There. Now, your turn. No excuses." Shucks. The man is actually friggin naked in the pool. His magnified manhood in the water is starting to slowly hypnotize me. I just giggle at my own silliness. "Fine!" I finally say. I look around to make sure there are no people around watching. I take off my clothes one by one except my panties. Chills run down my spine as a cool breeze touches my now bare skin. Instead of jumping, I chose to go around and walk down the stairs so I can slowly submerge myself in the water and then remove my panties. Alexei grabs me by my waist and slowly moves us towards the middle. "See, it''s not that bad." He says in a reassuring tone. I look down and wrap my arms around his neck. I am equally terrified and embarrassed. The way he looks at me like this, I know where this is leading to. He reaches for my lips, slowly and gently. His are like the ones you can''t get enough of. The soft heat lock deeply, passionately. I was then left gasping for air when he pulls me up and made my legs wrap around his waist. He runs his tongue on my neck and made smalls kisses down to my breasts and finally reaching my now hard left nipple. I clung to him for my dear life as he masterfully maneuvers my body to go with his desires. He wraps his other arm around my body while he''s groping my breasts with the other hand, one bosom at a time, his lips doing my nipples in interval. Knowing his obsession with my bum, it took not long for him to suck on my nipple while his hand reaches my ass for a long rub, squeeze and p. "Are you ready?" He asks as he slowly positions my pelvis in perfect angle to his torso. I wasn''t able to say a word, I just nod at him, flushed face and all. He lets out a satisfied smile in response. He''s looking up at my face as he gently prates me in the water. His impressive member rubs against the tight walls of my vagina until he was finally able to bury all of him in me. This made me squirm involuntarily, feeling very tight and full. His first hard thrust made me gasp for air, as I feel all of him inside me. The water ripples around us as he continues to thrusts. He tightens his grip around my waist and my thigh in each push, making sure I''m in his full hard control, forgetting at the moment that I am actually pregnant. I then reached for his lips to dive in for another unreserved kiss. I feel warm, giddy, and full of love and lust at the same time. The feeling is too overwhelming. I am making love with a man that I am undeniably in love with, in the pool under the romantic ambiance of the moonlit sky. "Hold on. I want you on your back." He says as he steps towards the edge of the pool and spins me around, removing his manhood from inside my femme. To my surprise and to my utter excitement, he wraps his arm around my waist while the other one is immobilizing me in a chokehold. He then purposely rubs his manhood against my back, teasingly. "You''re so fucking hot." He groans. "You like that don''t you, my love? "Yes! Yes Alexei, baby." I replied. Without another word, Alexei removed his arm from around my waist as he points his member on my bum and rubs it up and down in between the slit. This forced me to hold on to the edge of the pool since I am already literally choking because of his other arm still wrapped around my neck on chokehold. It was a momentary panic but for some sick reason, I enjoyed it. No-- I like it a lot! Alexei slowly slid his manhood again inside my femme from the back. This time, his other arm is already holding me tight around my waist while his hand is clipped on my throat. Silent gasps escaped my mouth when he starts to thrust and grind-- pushing and pulling his hard member while his torso hits my bouncing bum. His hand grips my neck just enough for me to catch some breath. My breasts are bouncing in each push, making the water around me ripple small waves. Alexei then decided to remove me from the edge of the pool to carry me back in the middle where there''s a chance that I drown. He continues to prate me from the back and choke me, forcing me to open my mouth to gasp some more air. I feel like adrenaline is pumping in my blood, making me feel this kind of freedom I only experience from beingpletely dominated by someone I know will never let me go. I could not contain my silent moans. The fact that we are in an open space and the possibility of getting exposed, added up to the rush that I''m feeling right now. Shivers run down my spine from my ear where he whispers, "I want you to touch yourself, princess. Rub your tight pussy. I want you to tell me if you''re close. Let''se together, okay?" "Ahuh." I mumble. "Such a good girl." He whispers back. I slowly slid my middle finger in between my slit and found my sensitive pearl. I rub it gently at first before slowly going on a much faster pace. Just like how he and his brother eat my femme, I mimic the motion using my finger. I feel double the pleasure as Alexei pounds me hard from the back, whilst being choked as I touch my self to a lustful rhythm. This went on and on until the feeling became too intense and unbearable. I can actually feel the overwhelming sensation that is about to burst out of my system. I am going toe. "Alexei, uh. I''ming." I say breathlessly while rubbing my c l * t at a much faster pace. This time his thrusts be harder, deeper, and harsher by the second. "I''m soo fucking close princess. F*ck." My body convulses so I held on to Alexei''s arm tightly, while I savor my orgasm in full stream. The world around me turned into aplete blur of surreal images. Tiny circles of different colors started to float around us. Alexei pulls me tighter towards him as he releases his c*m inside me. I know, I am going to bruise again. He continues to groan and fill me as he reaches his climax, almost the same exact cosmic moment as mine. Chapter 10 Chapter 10 Niki and Yuri watching Belle and Alexei by the window in a room facing the pool below. Niki: This is as close as you can have her Yuri. Yuri: I do not wish to be involved Boss. She''s never going to be mine. (Pauses for a while) Im going to bed. We have a long day ahead. Excuse me. (Attempts to exit the room) Niki: Where the fuck do you think you''re going? When I say you watch, you watch! Yuri: (halts and stood for a while before going back to stand beside Niki) Boss. Niki: When we were kids, my father treated you and your brother as his own sons. You had everything that I and Alexei had. You had Matushka''s affection. You were my father''s champion protege''. And then you finally got that tattoo on your arm and swore your life in the Mafia to protect me and the family. If I really think about it, you sold your soul to the devil--to my father. Belle, my beautiful wife, does not understand this. She thinks that the rule prohibiting you to involve in any serious rtionship is cruel. And you know how much I love that woman. I will do anything for her. So here''s what''s going to happen Yuri. You are going to find a woman-- a decent one--you know the type that you think you can marry. Take her in and live with her in the mansion. Yuri: Boss--- it''s the Big Boss'' rule. There''s no getting around it. I don''t want to disrespect Papa Vyachev just because he''s dead. Niki: I am the Big Boss. I am Vyachev now. I am my father''s blood. So you answer to me! You fucking screwed up. Now you face the consequences. Yuri: I understand. Niki: Good. Now, if after knowing and seeing you with another woman, Belle still thinks that you deserve to be free and she supports your marriage, you will no longer be part of the Mafia, you can freely leave the mansion and build your own home and family. BUT, if my wife shows any sign of jealousy or distaste towards your marriage, you are going to dump the woman and we will go on with our lives. I will forget what you have done and I will not stand against your feelings for my wife, in fact, if she lets you, you can have her and share the bed with us. Yuri: Boss?! This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. Niki: Your future with the Mafia depends on how your Madame will handle and react to the situation that you are in. Of course, she must not know about this. ~ Belle''s POV "Boop. Boop." Says Alexei, poking my breasts with his index finger as if popping a balloon. "What are you? A toddler?" I just shake my head. "I''m just happy. Are you happy? With me? With us?" He asks like a child on Christmas morning. His eyes are twinkling like the stars in the night sky. Geez. "What do you think?" I retorted. "I think, you''re in love with me and my brother. And yes, I think you''re happy. Are you?" "Yes. I am Alexei. More than ever." I answered inplete honesty. I am very much happy with my married life. It''s not normal but it''s a happy marriage. He grins like a child and drops his face on my breasts, making that motorboat sound. This time, a full- blownugh escaped my mouth. As between him and his brother, Alexei rarely ys and acts like this. Perhaps, he is indeed really happy. "Uh, princess? Show me your ass." He whispers. I sshed water on his face, "No. I''m embarrassed." "Why? It''s only the two of us. Bend over baby girl. Just one time then we''ll go back to the Vi. I know youre sleepy." "Hmm." I look around just making sure that there are no people watching. I then turn my back and bent over to give him the perfect view of my bum. To save myself from further embarrassment and this awkward position, I decided to tease him. I went out of the pool and ran for my clothes, quickly put on my panties, and grabbed his clothes and mine. "Hey! Where are you going?" "Catch me if you can, naked!" I screamed while running for my life. I covered my breasts with the clothes and ran as fast as I can to our Vi. "Princess! Come back. Shit!" I parted my lips when I heard him curse. Oh my god. I can''t believe I pissed him. Alexei doesn''t get pissed with me! Oh my gosh. My heart is pounding very hard. "You did not see me! I''m a ghost!" I quickly say to the two security detail who are making their routine rounds. Goodness. I think I''m going to run out of breath. When I reached the front door, one security detail instantly stood up from his chair and looked puzzled as hell. "Madame?" He says, all confused. "Good night! You did not see me. You''re just imagining." I answered quickly. This time the living room where I have to pass through so I can run up the stairs to the Master bedroom is a little tricky because I know we have several men there. If I tiptoe, there''s a bigger chance that the men will spot me plus the fact that Alexei is closing in from behind, I just can''t slow down. So I decided to sprint my way like the sh and run for my life to seek refuge in Niki''s arms. I jump to the bed and crawled my way to Niki under the covers. "Niki? Niki, please wake up. Niki." I tap his face many times to wake him up. "Ugh? Baby? What''s the matter. You''re shaking and you''re naked and soaked!" "Niki, it''s Alexei. I---" Bam! The door opened wide! Slowly, a shadow appeared, and then Alexei came into the light. He is holding a pool chair in front of him to cover his manhood and he looks sooooo friggin pissed and serious! Oh my gosh! I almost burst outughing but my fear of getting punished got the most of me. I buried my face deeper into Niki''s neck and begged my husband to save me from Alexei. ~ A barbeque breakfast party is happening in the block where the crime families of the Conglomerate are staying in. Each Mafia family is having breakfast in their respective front yards as music is sted from different parts of the block. Kids are ying carefree, smiling and happy faces everywhere. Members of other crime families are wee to go to the other yards if they wish, including ours and the other Vi next to ours, the De Alba''s. I have not actually met any member of the De Alba''s all I know is that they are the Russia Mafia''s frenemies. Normally, I like festivities like this but I woke up grumpy as hell. Alexei did not sleep with us in our bed. Last night he went directly to the shower when I buried myself in Niki''s arms. I did not know what happened next because I fell asleep. I just can''t seem to force a smile on my face, even more so when the first thing I see when I stepped out of the front porch are my boys, talking to women from other crime families, including rast night. I know it''s not fair for me to assume that these women have made their way inside Niki''s or Alexei''s pants one way or another but the way these girls act around them, based on past experiences, is more likely what I think it is. This is something I could not just easily brush off. I don''t want to imagine the lifestyle of these two when ites to women and parties before I even entered the picture. I just can''t. Niki and Alexei are the epitome of security, masculinity, and beauty, no woman can ever resist their charm. Their mere presence will knock any woman off their feet. Before I expose my raging jealousy in front of all the people of the Conglomerate, I went back inside the Vi and found myself in front of a huge mirror. Geez Belle, find someb will ya? I brush my bushy hair using my fingers, trying to untangle some stubborn strands but the more I try, I feel like the more it tightens. Uh! So frustrating! "Madame?" "Oh my gosh Yuri! Please don''te up to me like that again?!" I feel like my heart got stuck in my throat. Howe I did not notice him right away? "I''m sorry Madame." I suddenly feel bad for overreacting, "Uhm it''s fine Yuri." "You should have breakfast. Do you want to go outside? I will have your food served immediately." "Maybeter. Your Bosses look-- a little busy out there. I don''t want to bother." Ugh! Subtlety Belle. "They were just talking with some friends. It''s not every day that people from other families get to see and greet Volkov. They are just making sure that they are still in good graces with the Russia Mafia." "Uh! Why won''t this stupid hair untangle!" "May I?" Yuri said as he offers his hand to untangle my hair. My arms are already tired and I''m already too irritated to do this myself I might end up cutting this with scissors if this goes on so I decided to let go of my hair. Yuri stepped closer to me and gently handled my stubborn hair. "Did you sleep with an unkempt hairst night?" I just noded. It was not only unkempt but I was soaking when I fell asleep in my husband''s armsst night. Although, I woke up clothed already. From the reflection in the mirror, I can see how he slowly untangles my hair, one knot at a time. Hmm...whoever this man ends up with is one really lucky girl. Yuri -- minus the kissing part-- is a gentleman and very protective. I genuinely hope he finds a woman who will take care of him--for a change. All his life he has taken care of the Russian Mafia, maybe it''s time for him to think of himself. Chapter 11 Chapter 11 Belle''s POV Yuri took the wolves from their cages, put them on a leash, and gave them to me. He was hesitant at first but I assured him and proved to him that I have tamed Petrushka and Valkyre. I instantly fell in love with these two when I first saw them. They have majestic poise and intimidating growl. I know these predators are vicious but for some reason, I do not fear them. They, in fact, enjoy belly rubs and fur rubs. Niki, Dimitri, Boris and some women are at one table while Alexei is on the other side, talking and having juice or whatever cocktail with some girls as well. They lookfortable like animals in their natural habitat. I went to Alexei''s table first. I made sure that I let go of the part of the leash long enough to scare the women away. They instantly scooted on the opposite side of the table, looking terrified. Alexei instantly hissed at the wolves in amanding Russian tone, the animals instantly stood down like puppies. Afraid the wolves will eat your bitches Alexei? I just rolled my eyes at him. He looks at me quizically, surprised by my attitude. But, whatever. "I want to eat now Alexei." I said tly and then turning my back on him before he can retort back and remind me that he''s still mad All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. because of what happenedst night. If he''s still mad, then fine. He can get mad or even ignore me as long as he wants, but we eat together no matter what. Themotion already took the attention of the people from the other table but I was having too bad of a mood to even care. As we approach the other table, the women slowly transferred to the opposite side. Petrushka and Valkyre are already charging and pouncing to get away from the leash to grab a bite off of our female guests when Niki did what Alexei did a while ago. The two turned into cute little puppies instead of scary wolves, to my disappointment. Boris and Dimitri scooted over to make room for me and Alexei who is now walking smoothly towards the table. "Good morning baby Madame." Said Dimitri as he takes the wolves from my hands. "Finally, our sunshine is awake." He added cheerily while giving Yuri a naughty look. He must have known that Yuri calls me his sunshine. I just ignore him because I don''t want Alexei to notice and react negatively towards Yuri again. I sat down next to Niki. I then kiss him on his cheek which he reciprocated with a long sweet kiss on my lips. In an instant, I turned into a mushy marshmallow inside. My god, Niki, your eyes are melting me away. Why are you so gorgeous? "My darling woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning?" He whispers. "I was alone when I woke up. You know I don''t like that." I replied. "Hmm. We did not want to wake you. You were sleeping like a baby. And I''ve read that soon to be mums need a lot of sleep because then the babies can rest as well." He said while tapping a book on the table next to his morning coffee. How to be a Great Dad: A Guide in Raising Twins for Dummies. There''s a Spanish trantion below the texts and a caricature of twin babies with suckers as the cover image. "Where did you get that Niki?" I asked in amusement. Niki looked towards Alexei who is now sitting beside me, looking down on his phone and texting. I know he''s really not texting anyone. He''s just tapping away to dodge a conversation. I slowly covered his phone with my palm and ced it on the table to get his full and undivided attention. "Are you still mad at me?" I asked him face to face. "No." He answers dismissively. "Really? Then why didn''t you sleep beside me and your brotherst night?" "I have to leave for some urgent businessst night when you fell asleep. I saw the book in the convenience store we stopped over, when I came back, I went to bed beside you." "Yah?" "Yah." "I wanted to spend more time in the pool with youst night. I guess that''s not gonna happen anymore." He said like a child deprived of candies on Halloween. I covered my mouth to suppress a giggle. My goodness. He''s just like his brother when he doesn''t get what he wants. Volkov tantrums. "Must be really funny for you to leave me in the fucking pool with a full hard boner and no clothes eh?" He added like a teenager. "Aw.. look at that, my poor baby brother is upset because he did not get enough pussy and assst night." Said Niki who is shaking his brother''s hair, teasing him. "Fuck off brother!" Alexei retorted. "Okay, that''s enough Niki. Behave please?" I said, removing his hand from his brother''s head. "Yes, Ms. Volkov." He said acting like an obedient pupil in my ssroom. I wrapped my arms around Alexei''s neck and whispered in his ears, "We will bathe in the tubter, just the two of us, no Niki." "Yah?" "Yah." "Hey I heard that. That''s not the nicest way you treat the man you shot." Niki inserted with a sprinkle of guilt trip. "Niki you cant bathe with us because of your wound. I''ll just bathe you afterward okay? Did you have your wound cleaned and dressed already?" I asked, noticing blood on the fabric where his wound is located. "Not yet. The in-house doctor wille overter." "Is the doctor a man or a woman?" I asked just making sure. "I''m not sure baby." He answers feigning innocence and finding an opportunity to get back at me. "No need for the Doctor. Amy is here in Colombia with her brother. She can clean you up." I said, eliminating the possibility of another woman looking at his crotch. At least it will be my best friend whom I trust with my life and not just some random woman doctor. Amy may have a dirty mind and I''m sure she''ll enjoy it a bit too much but I believe that she is more than capable as a nurse. She will do a great job. "Dammit." Niki hissed. Alexeiughed at his brother teasingly. "You thought, brother? You fucking thought you can one-up her?" Niki just shook his head while reading his book, his brother got for him. I ced 4 stacks of pancakes on Alexei''s te, then on Niki''s. I drizzled honey and topped bananas on Niki''s stack while blueberries on Alexei''s stack. "Thank you, my love." Says Niki who looks so eager and focused on the book. Alexei on the other hand is extra touchy and clingy, grabbing me on hisp and kissing my arms, chest and neck. "Finish your pancakes then we''ll go to the tub to bathe." I whisper. "Just bathe?" He asks as if waiting for me to say some more. "I will show you my ass and then you can do whatever you want to do." "Yah? No Niki right?" "Yah. No Niki." I answered, trying so hard not to roll my eyes once again. I know that giving him what he wants is the only way his Volkov tantrum will go away. And besides, making love to Alexei is always breathtakingly amazing. I am notining. "What a fucking baby." Niki inserted, sporting a yful smile, teasing his brother once again. Alexei hisses, "Says the man who can''t sleep without sucking the Princess'' nipples every night just to sleep. I wonder what would the Mafia think if they find out the Big Boss is an infant." In all fairness to Alexei, he''s just saying the truth. I bit my lower lip to suppress a giggle. Thank goodness their men are busy getting more food from the buffet table, they won''t hear what these two had to say to each other. "What can I say, I like the wife''s titties." Niki answered, not even denying it. "Me too. The wife''s titties are the best titties." Answered Alexei, smiling and agreeing with his brother. "What is ra doing here anyway?" I ask when I caught her ncing at me as if trying to smile at me or something. Also, purposefully trying to change the topic since Dimitri and the other boys areing back to the table. "She''s here to apologize for what she did to youst night." Niki said, with a serious tone in his voice. So he knows what happened in the restaurant. I am not surprised though. Everything that happens to me, I can be sure as hell Niki will know of. "I think it''s partly yours and your brother''s faults really." I said as a matter of factly. "Women like ra, had some connection with either or both of you one way or another, that''s why they thought they needed to fight another girl just to get your attention." "It was just a casual hook up and she knew that." Alexei answered. At least I did not have to ask who among the two is the culprit dick. "Okay. So you want to know why she had the audacity of insulting me even though I was with you? Why she wasn''t even afraid of throwing a ss of water at the Russian Mafia Boss and underboss'' wife?" I retorted. "Baby...." Niki inserted. "No, let me finish. And let me answer the questions for the both of you." "Princess." "It''s because they are thinking that I am just a bimbo you and your brother are fucking in the meantime. The vor of the day. The disposable easy fuck. The hooker being shared by the Volkov Brothers." "Babe, you know that''s not true. We are married for god sakes!" Niki said with a raised voice, it took the attention of the people around. Yuri and the other boys instantly moved to ask the guests to leave. They then stood facing the fences and the street as if talking casually but at the same time, making sure we have privacy. Chapter 12 Chapter 12 Belle''s POV "Did we ever make you feel like those things that you said?" Alexei asked, taking my hand, holding it tight, and connecting the back of my hand to his lips. Of course not, they never made me feel that way. But maybe I''m feeling this way because of my bottled up frustration over my so-called ''wedding''. "I''m just saying. You don''t even have rings on your fingers or anything to show that both of you are mine! That you are not avable anymore because you are wed to me. These women just throw Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. themselves at you because they are thinking that they can still bed the bachelor Volkov brothers of the Russian Mafia." I continued. "Baby...I''m sorry okay? I can order new rings from the jeweler? Or maybe you want to go shopping for the ringster? Alexei and I wille with." Niki said as he grabs me by my waist with both of his hands. "No it''s fine. I''m sorry. I''ll just go to the privy. Excuse me." I said, partly ashamed of myself for the meltdown and partly pissed that they think it''s just about the ring. It''s more than that. "No one is leaving this table until we are finished talking about what you just said." Says Niki in a "I am your wife, not one of your men Niki." "Damn right you''re my wife! That''s why you get to do things to me I normally would not let pass like shooting me, drugging me with a wrong fucking pill, and don''t ever think I already forgot that you once clocked me in the head, I got stitches from it!" He answered in all conviction while pointing at his upper brow. "Who does that to Volkov? No one but you, my beautiful stubborn and moody wife." Nope. Stop it Belle. Don''t give in. Hold your ground. Stop recalling those terrible things you did to him that almost cost his life a couple of times. I smack him on his shoulder as hard as I can and walked away because I''m on the verge of getting mad and giving in at the same time. Goddammit! ~ The night when Belle got away from Alexei in the pool and snuggled in bed with Niki until she fell asleep in his arms, soaking wet. Alexei: (holding the pool chair to cover his crotch) I can''t believe she just left me in the pool alone and naked. Niki: She''s shaking, she really thought you''re mad at her. Alexei: (Alexei puts down the chair and snuggled with Belle on the other side of the bed, kissing her nape and hair) She''s hard to get mad at. She''s my angel. Niki: What did you say happened in the restaurant? Alexei: It''s ra. I''ll take care of it. I''ll just shower. When Alexei got out of the shower he saw Niki already waiting for him. He''s wearing jeans, a white shirt, and a leather jacket. He''s standing while using his cane as support. Yuri is also in the room, talking to Niki. Yuri: The SUVs are ready. Boris will stay here to watch over Madame. The boys went to the vi of one of the gangs aligned with the Cabana Cartel. Yuri and Dimitri together with five of their men took their guns out casually as they walk towards the entrance. This took the men guarding the vi by surprise. Alexei went inside the house and took the Boss of the gang out of his room to the living room. He looks dazed out and still wearing his boxers. Alexei made him sit down while pointing a gun at his head. The wife of the Boss was begging for the Russian Mafia to let them go while Dimitri is forcing her to sit on the other chair. Yuri has ra in his arms, manhandling her while pointing a gun at her head as well. As the whole vies down to the knees of the Russian Mafia, Niki majestically walks inside the house albeit limply. His cane making a thudding sound as he nears them. He slowly appears from the darkness and carefully sat down on the chair right across from the Boss of the other gang. The fear on the faces of ra and her mother were indescribable. It''s as if they just saw the most horrifying sight in front of them and that they expected this to happen. Oswald: What are you doing here Volkov? This is against the conglomerate rules. You cant do this! You know that! (Looking unfazed.) Niki nods at Yuri as if signaling something. Yuri then grabs ra and made her kneel in front of Niki. Alexei gave his other gun to his brother. Niki then grabs ra''s hair whilst inserting the nozzle of the gun inside her mouth. ra was screeching in fear and begging on Niki. Niki: (Calm while sporting a sinister smile on his face) Mrs. Gustaf, why don''t you tell your husband what your sweet sweet daughter did to my wife in the restaurant? I''m guessing she confided with you? Dimitri pointed the gun closer to the wife''s head which made her flinch, her chest is heaving in shock. The woman told her husband what ra did to Belle which changed his mood in an instant. They started arguing which irritated Niki even more. Niki: Oswald, tsk tsk tsk. Spare me the fuckery of your family. I''m not interested. Oswald: My stepdaughter is a fool for doing that to your wife but you still can''t do this! The conglomerate will deal with this and not you! Niki: Do I look like I fucking care Oswald? You should be thankful I paid you a visit myself. I just did you a huge favor. If I take this to a vote tomorrow night, you and your gang will not be able to see the light of day in the conglomerate, I assure you that. (Niki''s attention is now focused on ra whose tears are flowing down her face) Tomorrow morning, you beg for forgiveness from my wife. If she forgives you, you live. If not-- Alexei: (Inserts) I''m gonna fucking kill you myself. Niki: You heard him. You and your friends do not cross my wife ever again or else-- Alexei: (Inserts) I''m gonna fucking kill you and your friends. Niki: Mrs. Gustaf, I expect you and your friends to y nice with my wife tomorrow night in the wives'' meeting? Mrs. Gustaf: Yes. Of -- Of --- (Stutters in fear) Of course Volkov. Niki: Good. Mrs. Gustaf: But-- I-- I don''t know if you know about this b--but some of the older wives are plotting against your wife. Niki was somehow taken aback by this. He knows that the Mafia wives may not be too weing ording to Matushka but he did not expect them to plot against her. Not when she''s carrying the Volkov name. Niki: What are they plotting against her? Mrs. Gustaf: All I know is that they are going to put her on the sideline. Niki: That''s it? What else? This is not the time to lie to me! Mrs. Gustaf: I swear to god that''s all I know Volkov. If I find out anything else, I will let you know I promise. ~ Belle''s POV "I''m sorry for what I did to youst night. I was being a bitch. I hope you can forgive me." Says ra, holding a Mcdonald''s take away as a peace offering. "Okay. Just don''t do that again to any other girl. Us women shoulde together and not fight against each other, don''t you think?" She smiles at me faintly but I don''t understand why she''s all fidgety and anxious. She looks scared actually. "Are you okay?" I asked. "Uh yah, of course. I just did not have a good night''s sleep. Uh- well, thank you and I''ll see you tonight at the ball and the wives'' meeting?" "Yah, sure. See you." Alexei and Niki are sitting on separate chairs beside the pool, looking in my direction and smiling like handsome devils. "What did she say?" Asked Alexei. "She apologized and brought me Mcdonald''s." I said, raising the takeaway. "That''s good." Says Niki while tapping hisp, gesturing me to sit. "Wanna talk about what happened this morning?" He says while purposefully touching his mouth with his hand, showing me his ring finger with a shiny diamond band around it. Alexei is also wearing the same ring and holding another one, the female version of their rings, in his other hand. He then puts the ring on my finger and kissed the back of my hand. "I have already contacted the wedding nner and Matushka is meeting them as we speak. We are going to get married in the presence of our family, the Mafia, the conglomerate, your parents and family from Pwi, and the whole of New York. We are going to exchange our vows without guns or a bleeding priest. I cant wait to see you walk the aisle in your wedding dress as I wait for you at the altar. And in the evening, you and Alexei will wed privately in a solemn ceremony." Chapter 13 Chapter 13 Belle''s POV Silence fills the air as Niki and Alexei await my response. Somehow there''s this little part of me thinking that Niki felt pressured to push for the wedding because of our argument about other people thinking that they are still single since they did not even wear wedding bands and our other past arguments regarding the matter--most of which resulted out of my frustration about how Niki literally dragged me to the altar and forced me to marry him. I just look down to my ring finger and brush my beautiful ruby engagement ring and the new 18 Carat diamond ring as wide as my own chubby finger. "Don''t you like it baby? I just thought you can wear this tonight for the Ball. I have already arranged for a bigger one--a 40 Carat for our wedding. What do you think?" He says while kissing the back of my hand. I moved up his chin so we can see each other eye to eye. "Niki, this is too much. How do you suppose I can walk aroundfortably wearing this? And besides, have you seen my jewelry shelves back at the mansion?" "Yes. We had the shelves shipped from Italy and then I ordered our people to fill them with pieces of jewelry for you. Did you like your closet by the way?" He answers,pletely oblivious of my point. My god this man. I am so close to friggin erupting really. "Niki, you cannot call it a closet if you have two esctors, an elevator, revolving shelves, voice-activated ss doors, and two floors of designer stuff in it. It''s already a friggin mall! We have a mall inside or home Niki! A mall!" "So, you don''t like it?" He asked. I sighed and just all the way gave up. Belle please, men''s brains are wired to see either ck or white. No rainbows or glitters. Do yourself a favor and be straightforward to him. "It''s not that I don''t like it. It''s amazing really Niki and I appreciate all the things that you are giving me. But maybe perhaps next time, just modest and simple things. I can just imagine the price of this diamond ring and the 40 Carat diamond ring that you''re nning to get for our wedding." "You are my Queen. You are to wear what I want you to wear. You will have what I want you to have. You will not stop me from doing what I want. End of." There he goes again. Arrogance level one hundred thousand! Niki Vachev Volkov. All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. "You marry yourself then Niki. End of." I retorted. "Well..." He lets out this evil smile. "Technically, you are married to me in perpetuity no matter what you say or do. I have papers to prove it and witnesses. So go ahead. Rebel against me all you want A-- REBEL--A. Yourst name is still VOLKOV and -- oh god this is my favorite part -- you, my beautiful thing, are carrying little Volkovs. My own flesh and blood. You''re stuck with me and my brother. FOREVER." "Ah-- what he means---" Alexei inserted as he tries to salvage the situation and obviously trying to cover his brother''s ass. He then shoots a piercing look towards the cocky bastard whom I call my husband but thetter remained unfazed. I instantly stood up from Niki and attempted to walk away but Alexei caught my hand and pulls me right onto hisp. "I want to go now! Obviously, I don''t have a say in this rtionship. I might as well just shut up." "Princess, listen to me. Look me in the eye please?" He says as I try so hard to roll my eyes back. Alexei wasn''t able to suppress his chuckles perhaps because of how ridiculous I look right now. I instantly smack him on his shoulder. He then wraps his arms around my body to stop me from moving. "What my brother means is that me and him have no one else to spend our money on except you. We were both single before we met you yah?" "Yah, so?" I answered, a little bitchy. "So, we have a lot of money. More than we could ever need in this lifetime. This fucker alone is a Billionaire. And the Mafia earns millions of dors a day. We work hard and we y harder. And our only y is spending on you. You are the only apple of our eyes. Showering you with our love plus many more makes us happy. Please don''t take this happiness from us?!" "But--" I want to reason out but Alexei''s lips smacked on my lips before I could even continue. I can taste cigar and scotch from his soft and sexy mouth. I almost ran out of breath. "No buts." He says, his hazel eyes are looking up at me intensely I feel like I''m going to melt. "This doesn''t mean that you don''t have a say in this rtionship. It''s the exact opposite of that. We are at your mercy, my love. We will do anything for you. It''s just that, you don''t ask us for any material things at all. So we have to get creative all the time. We don''t ask permission because we know that you''re going to talk us out of it." My goodness, why is this man so gorgeous and talks a lot of sense at the same time? It''s one hell of a deadlybination. "Fine. If this will make you and Niki happy I''m not going toin anymore." "Good girl." Niki inserts sporting a yful smirk on his face. "Whatever Niki." I said, rolling my eyes at him. To my utter surprise, he stood facing his side on us and slowly pushed me down squishing me in between him and Alexei. Next thing I know, the three of us are already on the couch, wrestling. I''m trying so hard to breathe because I''m slowly suffocating in between my giggles and plead for Niki to stop but the man is too yful to care. "Niki, your wound! Stop it! And I''m squished! Your little Volkovs remember?" I squealed. He did not stop, instead, he raises my left arm and buried his nose on my underarm. I instantly panicked because I''m not sure if I shaved. Shit. Niki inhaled deep and slowly breathed out as if enjoying a drug or something. "Uhmmm smells so fucking good brother. Divine armpit and smooth ck armpit hair. Decorative." At this point, I feel like all my blood rushed to my face inplete and utter embarrassment. I want to scream and run to a corner and just cry. Adding salt to my wounded ego, Alexei did the same thing as his brother rains kiss on my armpit. He then acts like he got high or is about to sneeze I''m not really sure. The two thenughed teasingly. All the more I felt terribly embarrassed. Oh Lord, just friggin hit me with your lightning and just kill me now. "Hmmp! You two have underarm hair. Howe it''s such an issue if I have it as well? Such a double standard!" "Who says it''s an issue? I like it, baby! Is it an issue to you brother?" Niki asked Alexei while a lunatic kind of grin is stered on his face. "I don''t mind thedy hair, especially the ones down there you know." Alexei answers naughtily referring to my hair down there. "You two are weird!" I eximed. "No babe. Real men appreciate a woman''s natural attributes." Niki responded without hesitation. I''m still all flushed and running out of breath when I heard a very familiar and feminine voice. "Niki your wife is pregnant. Stop being a rascal and get off of her and your brother." I feel like I have seen Jesus when the image came out of the blinding sunlight. "Matushka! Matushka you''re here!" Niki finally got off of me and kisses me all over my face while sporting this permanent evil smile. His dark green eyes are glittering as if he''s genuinely happy. My heart instantly fluttered with warmth even though I''m still drowning in embarrassment. Alexei wasn''t still able to get up so it was Matushka who bent over to kiss him on his forehead. The other love of my life is also sporting a wide and genuine smile. I never thought wrestling and embarrassing me in the process would make these two very happy. Matushka wipes my face and brushes my hair before embracing me very tightly. "Don''t worry princess, Matushka is here. I am here to help you prepare for the wives'' meeting." "Matushka, you really don''t have to worry about me. I can take care of myself. And besides, Amy''s here as well, she can help me prepare for tonight." "I know princess, I know you can perfectly manage without me." She answers with the warmest smile of a mother. Somehow, I feel like I know the reason why Matushka is here at thest minute. It''s Niki and Alexei being overprotective and paranoid again. "Is it because of the two? Did they ask you toe here for me?" "They are just being extra careful with your own safety and of course for the babies. They want to make sure you don''t get too stressed. Now go get some beauty rest because I know these two have been stressing you out. I have a reservation for you at the Coco Hotel''s Spa. My baby boy Yuri will apany you there." "But Matushka, I want to help you. What do you need? What do you want me to do?" I insisted because I really want to be of help to the Mafia at least in my own little way but Niki would not even let me lift a finger. Sometimes it gets a little boring especially when I''m being left alone with the help and our bodyguards. "I have people who will handle things. Just let Matushka do her thing okay?" Chapter 14 Chapter 14 Matushka: I found out that Laura Yvanislov is here in Colombia and she''s the one secretly meeting with the Conglomerate wives. Alexei: Laura? Sergey''s wife? Dimitri: Boss, I thought they were expelled from the organization after you ordered it? Every single member of the Conglomerate knows that whoever harbors her or any of Sergey Yvanislov''s family will find themselves in deep shit. Who in their right mind would even go against the Conglomerate? It is literally every fucking crime family and organized crime group of the east coast rolled into one. Those people must have a fucking death wish, unless--- Niki: Unless the person protecting the Yvanislov''s holds the same power in the Conglomerate as I am. Dimitri: The De Alba''s? Holy shit, we are on the verge of a mob war? Alexei: I got it. (Stood up and dialed his phone to call their people in New York) Matushka: Niki, do not be rash about your decisions. We still don''t know if it''s really the De Alba''s we are dealing with. Niki: It''s not only the Mafia that they are after. They are pointing the target at my wife because they know that she''s my weakness. Matushka: The more that you have to be very careful in your actions Niki. Remember what your father has taught you and all the things that he went through before he and Antonio De Alba made the Conglomerate. One wrong move and history will repeat itself. The moment the other Bosses below you and Axel sniffs of this, they will not hesitate to take advantage of the situation and take whatever they can. You have to talk to Axel first. You have to be a hundred percent sure. ~ Belle''s POV "Whow Baby Madame is it getting hot in here or what?!" Dimitri eximed the moment I stepped down the stairs after Matushka''s m squad from New York worked their wonders. I mean, I friggin look like a million bucks for a woman who''s just going to the spa. I am notining though. I feel sexy and fierce. I dropped on my knees in between Alexei''s legs on the sofa, hugged him tightly, and kissed him. His hand trailed from the small of my back and down to my bum, cupping it and making some naughty squeezes. "Be a good boy Alexei. No looking at other girls'' assess. I''ll be back before dinner time." "What the hell? That long? It''s only 11 o''clock! Not a single chance! I''lle for you after two hours." He answers dismissively. Geez, separation anxiety much? "It''s just for five hours. I''ll be back before you know it Alexei." "You better get your sexy ass done after two hours because we''reing for you whether you like it or not. Don''t force my hand into dragging you back home." Inserts Niki and he doesn''t even sound apologetic about what he just said. It''s as if I heard a boxing bell, I shot a re at him who is now looking down, signing some documents, and wearing his ck frame sses. "Drag me? Just like what you did to me on our wedding night?" Silence filled the air after I said that. "Aaaand I''m out!" Dimitri said, standing up and exiting the room. Niki hands the documents to Boris who exited the living room as well. Niki slowly took off his eyesses and calmly ced it on the small table in front of him. He then taps his other thigh that is not wounded while looking at me, waiting for me to sit on hisp. There''s this huge part of me who wants to submit and let him exin his side, but another part of me is basically screaming bitch teach this man a lesson. If I decide to walk out, he will not be able to move fast unlike before because of his injury but knowing too well the level of crazy of Niki, he will get to me sooner thanter in the most Volkov fashion. I intertwined my arms in front of me, "Niki, you and I will talk as soon as you realize that I am not just your little wife! Let me get this straight. I have been submitting to your desires not because I''m some weak little girl you need protecting. I submit to you and put up with your shit since day one because I CHOSE to and because I''M IN LOVE with you." 10 seconds and a series of struggles and manhandlingter... ~ Belle: Niki! You are unbelievable! Get me out of here! I hate you so much! (Relentlessly ms the door of the master bedroom where Niki locked her inside) Niki, Alexei and the other boys are standing outside the room and talking. Alexei: Damn, she''s going to be pissed as fuck brother. Dimitri: Are you kidding me? She''s already pissed as fuck! Niki: I can''t risk it. I''d rather have an angry wife than a dead wife. So unless you two have a better idea on keeping her safe until we find out who''s fucking us over in the Conglomerate she''s staying in that room at least until tonight. Yuri, make sure she stays locked up. She doesn''t go out without my permission. Yuri: How about Matushka? Alexei: I''ll take care of Matushka. It''s better we keep this from her. I want her to focus on finding out whom the Yvanislov''s are in contact with amongst the wives. Niki: I agree. Dimitri, I want you to go to Axel and make sure you deliver my message directly. No bodyguards, no right-hand man, not even his uncle, I don''t trust that sleazy bastard. Tell him we meet in the garden in two hours. Only me and him. ~ Belle''s POV My palms are itching to p those two on their faces! They did not even bat an eysh when Boris was manhandling me like a sack of rice on his right shoulder like I was nothing! I don''t understand why they have to lock me up here only because they don''t want me to stay outside that long. It''s just the friggin spa! It''s not like I won''t have bodyguards with me. Ugh! This is Niki going crazy again. I connected my ear to the door and I don''t hear any footsteps anymore. So I tried to yank the doorknob but to no avail. Shit. "Hello? Is someone there?" I say, hoping that someone will answer and talk to me because I''m starting to go crazy as well. "Whoever you are, I know you''re just taking orders from Niki. You know, your Boss is a crazy man." Silence. "Uhm fine, can you lend me your phone then? Or can you just dial Matushka Irene for me?" Silence. It''s as if I''m just talking to myself. Perhaps there''s really nobody on the other side of the door. My legs are already tired so I slowly sat down on the floor and removed my high heels to ease the pain. "If there''s someone out there. Can you at least y me a song from your phone? Anything at all?" Silence. I give up. I just closed my eyes and lean my head to the door. My legs hurt. My fierce outfit is such a waste. I kinda hoped for a while that I''d be able to show this amazing mesh dress to Amy. I''m sure she will appreciate this so much. After a long silence, a song started ying from the other side of the door. It instantly gave me an idea of who might be on the other side. I know I can treat you better than he can And any girl like you deserves a gentleman Tell me why are we wasting time On all your wasted crying When you should be with me instead? I know I can treat you better Better than he can It must be Dimitri because he''s the youngest among the boys. He''s more into these kinds of songs as I almost blurted out a giggle but then I realized how sad the song is really about. "Dimitri, I know it''s you. That song is pretty tragic don''t you think? Is that song for a certain girl?" Silence. "You know if you really love her. You should tell her and let her know what you feel. I''m just saying, maybe she will like you. You''ll never know." All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. I then heard footsteps walking away for a while and thening back near the door. And then a small note slips through the gap on the floor. The note says: ''I told her. She rejected me.'' Well, this sucks. I suddenly feel bad for him. "I''m sorry to hear that. But uhm... Is she worth fighting for though?" Another note slips through the gap: ''She''s worth dying for.'' Wow. How do I even respond to that? What wise advice could I actually give him if the man is willing to die for a woman. Goodness, these Russian men. I can now confirm that they are the best lovers in the world. "She must be a very special girl Dimi. You mustn''t give up then. If she''s worth dying for, she''s also worth living for. What good is love if you are already dead right?" I say as a matter of factly. This time a little faster reply was slipped through. ''I won''t give up Madame.'' Chapter 15 Chapter 15 Belle''s POV "Dimi, I''m hungry. Can you tell Niki or Alexei that the pregnant woman they are locking up is famished? Also, can you tell your Boss to get a divorce attorney? I just need to consult some very important matters." Silence. I swear Niki and Alexei are going to pay for this! I really don''t see the reason why I am being held hostage by my own family! If they have a reason for this, why not tell me!? Why keep me in the blind? I have the right to know the truth! I don''t have a phone and nobody is answering me anymore from the other side of the door. I am so mad and hungry at the same time. My stomach is already rambling. I need to get out of here. I scanned the room and the only way I can get out of here is through the windows. Luckily one window is open, but it will be approximately eight feet fall to the ground. Jumping out is not an option. And so I took the sheets from our bed and then tied the one end around the pole of the window. It did not really reach the ground but I guess it''s going to work. I tossed my high heels first and then my purse so I can free my hands. I slowly lowered down facing the window, my bum flying outside. My mesh dress is not helping my cause at the moment, but at this point, I really don''t care. ~ After going to the next-door neighbors and reaching for their telephone line from one of their windows, I was able to call an operator to dial a restaurant that offers delivery for Palitos De Queso which is one of my most favorite Latin American food. When my father attends a meeting with some of the leaders from this part of the world, we would always be offered by the host their delicacies one of which is this yummy and cheesy soft breadsticks. Just imagining the chewy and gooey cheese makes my mouth water already. I''m so hungry and so as my babies I believe. Aren''t you little Volkovs? Yes mum! We are hungry! Said the little voices in my head. Geez. My hunger is real. I wonder why the neighbors aren''t necessarily strict when ites to their home security. It''s like I can just get in and take whatever I want and leave just like that. Maybe perhaps they are thinking that no one would dare take anything from them because they are the De Alba''s, the most powerful drug cartel in South America. Yikes. I hope they don''t find out I was the one who took their horse for a ride, ate some of their This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. icecream and borrowed their telephone for a while. Hmm-- no matter. Niki will take care of it if I get caught. In the meantime, while waiting for my food I decided to wait by the pool. I''m taking my form-fitting dress off to get ready to swim when all of a sudden I felt someone behind me. When I turned around my heart jump from my chest when he seemed to be extending his arms to hold me. I instantly turned to my defensive mode and recalled what my cousin Devon taught me. I kneed the man on the balls as strong as I can. He slumped on the chair in pain. And then I looked around for any object I can throw at him but I only saw my stilettos. I figured I will just stab his eyes with the pointed heels. I was about to lung at him but I was halted when he extended his arms. "No! Por favor! Ah! Shit." He eximed in agony. He is holding in his hand a brown paper bag and a tub of what looks like ice cream. Oh my god! It''s the food delivery guy! He looks too dapper for a delivery guy though. He is wearing a frigging perfectly tailored suit, a neatly trimmed beard, jet ck hair, and tattoos on both his hands. "Se?ora Arabe Volkov?" He asked, and he''s trying really hard to look unfazed but he''s obviously failing. "Yes. Oh my gosh. Is that my food delivery?" I let go of my stilettos and slowly step towards him to take my food. "Palitos De Queso, soda, and aplimentary chocte gto imported from Italia." He answered. "Uhm I am so sorry. You startled me. Here let me help." I took the tub of ice cream and ced it on top of his crotch to somehow ease the pain. I figured, Artan used ice before when I identally kicked him on his man parts as well. Maybe the cold will help. "I''m so sorry. What''s you''re name?" It took him a while to answer, in fact, I think he even thought of his name first. Geez Belle, you gave the man temporary amnesia by kicking him on his balls. "Sebastian." He finally replied. "Thank you Sebastian. Good thing the gto did not melt on the way here?" Is the only conversation I can strike given the awkward situation. "Ah. The restaurant is not far from here and the owner also owns this club." He replied. "Oh really? Axel De Alba?" I asked as I hurriedly wear my ck dress back. "Yes." He answered. "Do you know him?" "Not really. I just heard his name from around here. My husband knows him though." I opened the can of soda and gave it to him. "So um. You work for Axel De Alba then?" "More or less." He replied with a hint of a naughty smile on the side. What was that about? He looks a lot better now and the color of his face has returned to normal. Goodness. People should really stop startling me. "I am so sorry Sebastian. Please don''te up to people like that again. I really thought you''re up to no good." This time the man snorted as if I said something really funny. I just could not find the humor in my statement though. "Were you up to no good?" I asked, raising my eyebrows. He disconnected his gaze momentarily because he got a message on his phone. He then stood up casually and slid on the table a ck calling card with no name on it but only a set of numbers. "Not this time. Not with you, mi amorcita." He answered with an inexplicable mix of sweetness and arrogance in his voice. ~ I''m trying to climb my way back up using my escape route but it is so damn hard especially when I have just eaten a tub of ice cream and three orders of cheese sticks. Dammit! I''m not even a foot higher from the ground. This is so hopeless. And then to my disappointment, I hear the voice of the devil himself, Niki. "I probably should have handcuffed you to bed, woman." He said while extending his palms to my bum because I''m already wobbling. Alexei lowered me down and wrapped his arms around my waist until I was able to stand on the ground. "Princess, what were you thinking? You could have seriously hurt yourself and the babies." "Well if I wasn''t locked in that room with no means ofmunication and food and no exnation whatsoever for incarceration, I wouldn''t have escaped!" I replied in all conviction. "The fuck was Yuri doing when you were escaping?" Asked Alexeipletely ignoring my fit. He looked pissed and the target of his agitation is none other than Yuri. The man that he swore he would kill if Yuri continues pursuing me. "Alexei, this is not Yuri''s fault. Perhaps he was busy with some other things. You know he takes care of a lot of things for the Mafia. And besides, it wasn''t really Yuri guarding the door. It was your other men and Dimi and they did not budge to my requests in all fairness to them. It''s just that I got lucky with that one window." I said, trying my best to ease him down. "Dimitri was with Matushka. Yuri was in charge of your security." Alexei answered. "You mean Yuri was the one guarding the door?" Oh my goodness. I might have given the worst love advice to that man. If it was Yuri, I swear to god. "Yes. It was Yuri at first. Why? Did he do something again? Tell me." He asked like he''s just waiting for a reason to brawl with the man again. "No Alexei. Will you please stop treating Yuri like he''s the enemy. He''s not. It will break my heart if anything happens to him because of me." And I won''t be able to forgive myself if this costs Yuri''s life. "If anything happens to him it''s not because of you. It''s because he''s a fool. He knows he can''t touch you and yet he fucking had the nerve to kiss you in my own fucking house? He saw that we were falling apart and the second that he had the chance, he betrayed me and undermined my position." Alexei answered clearly conveying the message that he is not ready to forgive Yuri. I did not press any further about the Yuri situation because at this point I know that there is no convincing Alexei. I held on to Niki because he is having a hard time walking even if he has a cane. No matter how mad I am with him, I just can''t bear watching him struggle like this because of my own doing. We dialed Dimitri to bring a wheelchair for Niki. I insisted that we take a little breather so the two can rest from worries or whatever stress our family is facing at the moment. It''s already dusk, we can already hear the sound of birds and crickets in the garden. Iid on the grass in front of Niki and yed with Petrushka and Valkyre. The two huge fluffy wolves are too adorable and sweet despite having different personalities. Valkyre is more silent and uptight but really touchy and sweet. He would just sit and behave while I''m using him as my pillow and he likes belly rubs and kisses. Petrushka on the other hand is a menace. He runs back and forth and around Niki and Alexei. He also likes bothering his brother but thetter is apparently very patient when ites to his sibling. Iy on my side to face the two most important persons in my life. We just looked at each other not saying a single word. Alexei is sitting and resting his back on the legs of his brother. I threw a flying kiss to the both of them. Niki acted like catching my kiss and ced the palm on his chest. He then slipped his fingers inside his jacket and tapped his chest several times like a beating heart. God, he''s so corny. Alexei on the other hand isughing at his brother''s apparent silliness. "The three of us forever and ever?" I asked. "The three of us forever--" Said Niki. "And ever." Continued Alexei. On the way back to the Vi, the two exined to me the whole situation. Yrina''s mother, Laura Yvanislov a former Conglomerate wife before they were banned and hunted by the Russian Mafia, had been seen to be meeting with her friends who have influence in the Conglomerate wives. They found out that her motive was to make my official entrance to the Conglomerate as unweing and as unpleasant as possible. Ultimately, she wants to get to me and to use me as leverage so she can get her daughter back. Niki and Alexei think that her husband Sergey Yvanislov was involved in this and that someone in the Conglomerate is helping the Yvanislov''s. But Axel has already denied involvement and that he assures my safety while in his territory. Still, Niki and Alexei are skeptical. Someone of huge influence must be behind the attempts against the Volkov Mafia. Chapter 16 Chapter 16 Belle''s POV "Niki please just let me help you." I pleaded because the man is so determined to put his trousers on himself refusing any help from me or from his brother. It''s pretty obvious that he''s having a hard time given that he''s limping and wounded. "I don''t need help. I am a man Belle. I do my own shit." He replied as if his pride as a man will diminish once he epts help from anyone. "I know that you''re a man. I have never doubted that Niki. You have proven that to me time and again, every day and night since I have known you. And I know that you do your own thing all the time but there are times that you have to let other people in and take care of you. That is what a rtionship entails. You don''t always have to give. You should also learn to at least open up and realize that Volkov can get shot, needs rest, and needs help to put his damn clothes on. You dig? Now please?" I extended my arms to help him stand so I can put his Armani on. Thank goodness he heeded my request. "Why are you so perfect? I don''t fucking deserve you. Alexei does, but not me." He said and I don''t suppose it was even a rhetorical statement. I looked up at him, stood on my toes, and kissed him on his lips. "Never doubt my love for you Niki. And do realize that you are perfect for me. Everything about you-- except the asional cookoo clock ticking in your brain and the excessive sexual intercourse you''re asking of me most times-- you are one hell of a man and a husband. And I mean that in a good way." He kissed me on my lips, deeply and passionately, I found myself running out of breath. "Ya tebya lyublyu Mrs. Volkov." He whispers. "I did not appreciate you wanting to talk to a divorcewyer." That took me by surprise. Not because what I actually said reached his knowledge and attention but the fact that he actually took it a little too seriously. "Niki, I was mad when I said that and I wasn''t even serious." "Serious or not, divorce shouldn''t even be a thought in your head. You are mine and my brother''s forever. And our children will have aplete family until they grow old. You dig?" He said using my words against mine. Somehow, I understand his insistence about having aplete family. Niki has never met his real mother. He has never known her. He was taken by his father from Russia when he was still a baby and brought to New York. He was raised by Vyachev who at that time was already living the life as a gangster untilter on that Viktor, Matushka, and Alexei came into their lives. "I dig, Niki." I replied. I will make sure that our children will be raised in aplete family, full of love and affection. They will be the apple of the eyes of their Dictator Granpa, their beautiful and kind grandmother from Pwi and another grandma who can kick some gangster''s ass, Matushka Irene. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. And of course, they have two fathers who are gods in their own ways. I mean, it can''t get anymore bad arse than that. "Good. Because if you don''t, keep in mind that I will kill every fuckingwyer you ask and if for some fucking miracle you get our marriage dissolved, I will find you and marry you over and over and over again. I would have a church built just to make that happen." He said and I''m certain that he is not even kidding. "Is the cuckoo clock ticking again Niki?" I asked so we can veer away from the divorce conversation. "The cuckoo clock will remain ticking if you talk Divorce ever again. I highly rmend that you think about the other kind of D." He retorted naughtily. "Yah? Why? What does this other D do?" I replied touching his manhood, knowing fully well where this conversation is heading. ~ Niki and Alexei are already outside waiting for me. It took me a while to find the ring I brought from New York that Artan gave to me before -- the female version of the blood-red ring he wears. I intend to return this to himter when I see him. I must admit, I miss Artan and of course the little angel Aria. I wish to see them and spend some time with themter. I look at myself in the mirror onest time. In addition to my huge ass diamond ring and my engagement ring, Niki made me wear a diamond and emerald wrist band which is some kind of a symbol that one is a Conglomerate wife during a Conglomerate meeting. Each color corresponds to a certain organization. The Russian Mafia''s colors are emerald or dark green, gold, and white. I know the Albanian''s official color is red and the De Alba''s I believe is royal blue. Geez I feel like a twinkling star and it''s not a good thing. I really don''t want to be this shy. Less visibility, less public attention, makes for a peaceful private life. But then again, I must always remind myself that I am now a wife to a very powerful man. I must act like it, at least outside the four walls of our home. Niki is sitting down, holding his cane and talking to Matushka while his brother is on the side, smoking a cigarette. Dammit! I have always known that those two can pull off whatever clothes they wear anytime and any day but tonight, they friggin look exceptionally handsome. So help my ovaries. I feel like my cheeks are heating up because the two are looking at me like there''s no tomorrow. One can never get used to this. I can never be immune to those unbelievably sexy eyes and electrifying charm. Their mere presence can sweep any woman off her feet, I guarantee that. "You are absolutely stunning dear!" Matushka eximed holding her hands together like a proud mama. "Thank you Matushka. What would I do without you?" I say as a matter of factly. Matushka is wearing an emerald long gown while holding in her hand a gold clutch bag. She is undeniably ssy and elegant, as always. I held hands with Alexei''s as I clutch my right arm around Niki''s, who is still limping even when using his cane. "Uhm Niki, Alexei, I would like to talk to Artanter. I just need to give him back something. Please?" "What''s that something?" Niki asked and I''m actually surprised that he doesn''t sound aggressive. He''s actually asking a legit question about Artan in a calm manner. As we get inside the limo, I exined to both of them about Artan''s ring. Niki actually did not have a problem with it. I am surprised but I am also proud of him. "You''re not mad Niki?" "I''m not mad. Artan is a m*therf*cker but I trust him with your life. So yes you can talk to him." Niki answered without a hint of jealousy or any aggravation towards his former archnemesis whatsoever. We''ll see if he can keep up this good behavior for the rest of the night. I am crossing my fingers. I looked at Alexei with wrinkled eyebrows. He just looks at his brother and shrugs, basically saying that he doesn''t know what has gotten into Niki. "I do not want you out of mine or Alexei''s sight for the rest of the evening. You do not go anywhere without bodyguards. Do you understand me baby?" Niki said as he pulls me towards him tightly. "Yes Niki. But what if I need to pee or poo?" I asked teasingly. "Hmm.. I''ll go with you when you pee. Alexei will go with you when you poo." He answered all too seriously it made Matushkaugh out loud. He is such an asshole to his brother, I don''t know how Alexei was able to put up with this stubborn and like aplete dick. Chapter 17 Chapter 17 Part 1 In Full Circle Belle''s POV All the Bosses of the Underground New York are right here at the Coco Cabana Hotel owned by the De Alba''s. I''m about to meet the man himself- Axel, the Boss of the Cabana Cartel-the most powerful drug cartel in Latin America and also the one holding the eastern and southern part of New York underworld. From the stories that I have been hearing about him, I''m not really keen on meeting the man, just because somehow he might be still fixated on getting revenge for his Father''s death in mistakenly thinking that it was Pa Vyachev who killed his father. I am well aware of the resolve of a son to avenge the honor and life of his father. I see that every day in the eyes of Niki and Alexei. It stays in them and it takes control over their lives. It is something I would never wish on anyone. As we walk past the crowd in the huge Ballroom of the Hotel, it''s pretty obvious that the Volkov Mafia- unsurprisingly turns heads and gets attention from almost everyone. I''m holding on to Niki''s arm while Alexei is on my other side. I still get tickled pink when this happens. More so now that Niki is taking smaller steps on our way to our sofa because of his gunshot wound. I don''t particrly enjoy getting this kind of attention when I''m with my boys. I still prefer low key- which at this point I know will remain a wishful thinking. The undeniable maic charm of the Volkov brothers of the Russian Mafia and their status in the New York underground criminal world is abination that is pretty hard to ignore. Also, it does not help that almost everyone in Niki''s entourage-Yuri, Dimitri, Boris and the rest of the men are pleasant in the eyes. Looking around, I must say that the host of this year''s meeting has gone all out in adorning this ce with silver, ck and the most prominent color, royal blue - Axel De Alba''s official conglomerate colors. The different crime organizations have their own sections and tables on both sides of the ballroom representing their organizations. The crime families in alliance with Axel De Alba have a hint of royal blue or silver inplement to their own colors while crime families in alliance with Niki have streaks of gold and green inplement to their own colors as well. What took my attention however is the section of the Albanian Mob. Their tables and sofas are ced right next to what seems to be the Russian Mafia''s side of the ballroom, and that gold ents are on the gands and pocket squares of their people. Even the cute little princess Aria of the Albanian Mob has a gold ribbon tied in a ponytail around her wavy blonde hair. She''s wearing a red ball gown and that cute and innocent smile as always. My heart fluttered with warmth as this could only mean one thing-Artan is still on Niki''s side. I instinctively squeezed Niki''s arms inplete and utter joy. "Niki, thank you! I love you so much!" He halted walking and tilted his head to face me. "Thank you for what baby love?" He asked, but with a Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. small smile on the side of his lips. I know that he knows what exactly I''m referring to. "You and Artan kissed and made up." I said teasingly. "I''d rather kiss a chicken than kiss that bastard." He answered, looking all disgusted and annoyed. I smack him on his shoulder but he just chuckles in response. "You really care for that Albanian fucker." He added. "Niki, I care for both Artan and Aria. And I know that you also care for that little angel even if you don''t say it." What I really wanted to say is that I can see it on his face whenever Aria approaches him and hugs him. His heart of steel softens the moment that angel hugs him. And I kind of have a feeling that the little girl is one of the reasons why the Albanians are still in Niki''s good graces despite what happened. It took us a while to reach our section because almost everyone we came across reached out for some pleasantries and short conversations with Niki and unsurprisingly the majority of women with Alexei. This other Volkov brother is really something when ites to attracting women. I have proven that a few times before. And in those times, I was either threatened or attacked just because I was with his "Aw look at that, they miss you Daddy Alex." I whispered. I can''t help but roll my eyes in annoyance. I hate it when this happens. Alexei is mine. He''s my daddy. Nobody can call him that except me. I bet he has slept with these women one time or another. Ugh! I removed his other hand from the small of my back and slightly turn my back on him, facing Niki. My husband noticed my sudden change in mood but he just lets out a devilish smile just like his brother. I palmed his cheek and pushed it slightly. "You find this amusing Niki?" "I love looking at your pointy lips when you get jealous." Alexei inserts himself as he forces his hand on the small of my back then pulled me tightly towards him. He then connects his lips on me for a deep and sensual kiss. The heat on his lips instantly faded the raging jealousy I was feeling just a second ago. Damn you Volkov effect! Why do I get so weak when ites to these two? "Pointy lips?" I asked while touching my lips because I suddenly felt conscious. "Yes. These sweet, supple and sexy pointy lips. Show daddy what these lips can do princess." He whispered too damn inappropriately. I palmed and pushed his face as well just to end this sexy talk because to be perfectly honest, I am starting to get affected. Now is not a good time to be friggin horny. "Behave." I whisper talked. It''s a good thing we are already near our table. Aria instantly ran in my direction and gave me a sweet sweet hug. "Hello my little angel. How are you?" She just smiled and showed me a small red pouch and then took a cute little bedazzled flip phone from the inside. She opened it and showed me her wallpaper. It''s a candid picture of me, her and her daddy from the time when Artan got shot which almost ended his life. Aria was showing me the bedazzled boxer shorts looking all cute and innocent while I looked so horrified because she wanted me to wear them. Her father, on the other hand, was half-naked, on his bed, with a huge smile on his face, enjoying the awkward situation I was in. Dardan said that his Boss will be runningte tonight as he has some business to attend to. "Hey how about me?" Niki said as he slowly took Aria from my arms. Our baby girl is growing up and she is not as lightweight as before. I''m just d that my husband figured quickly that I needed help in carrying her in my arms, even though he is injured himself. The little girl willingly hopped over Niki which made the man wince in pain. She then kisses him on his cheek and hugs him tightly. To my horror, however, she also opened her phone and I think I know what''s going to happen next. I feel like everything turned into slow motion. Please not now. Not this time. It''s as if Dardan read my mind. He abruptly took the phone from the little girl and slowly removed Aria from Niki. "I apologize Volkov, our princess can be a handful sometimes. Hey baby girl, let''s go wait for your dad outside? I''m sure he will be here any minute now." Niki looked at Dardan with those piercing green eyes and I think I know what''s going to happen next. I instantly grabbed my husband''s arm to get his attention. "Niki, I''m tired and my heels are hurting my legs. Can we sit down please?" I am so sorry Niki. I did not mean to do this to you. I promise I will tell you the truthter. Good thing he listened and so we proceeded to sit down. I''m on his right side while Alexei is on his left side. We sat down and just observed the party going on. Dimitri said that the real party and drinking will happenter on, after the meeting of the Bosses. "What was on Aria''s phone?" Niki asked. Yup. He noticed. He kisses my fingertips, my diamond ring and the back of my hand. "It was a picture of me, Aria and Artan the morning after he got shot. I mean, when you had him shot." I answered as a matter of truth. "Hmm. Okay." He replied. I looked him in the eyes just to be perfectly sure that he really is okay. I touched his forehead with the back of my hand to check if he is having a severe fever or delirium or something. He shook his head as he removed my hand from his forehead and then ced it on top of his crotch. I instantly removed it and smacked him on his chest but he only chuckled again in response. Alexei just Niki!" I eximed. I stood up to recover from the embarrassment and at the same time to find Amy. Where in the world could that woman be right now? And then I felt something wrapped around my left leg. Just like d¨¦j¨¤ vu I felt something cold and wet on my outer thigh. A little boy is looking up at me with a funny smile stered on his face, a missing front tooth, and an all too familiar face. Oh god. This is Jacob! The little boy who licked my leg the day when Niki and I met. What is this boy even doing here?! Chapter 18 Chapter 18 Belle''s POV If I wasn''t so embarrassed, I would totallyugh out loud because his grandmother looked so horrified, I feel like all the blood flushed away from her face as she ran like hell towards our direction with arms stretched forward, ready to scoop the boy from my thigh. There are men following the woman from behind with the same facial expression. It looks so funny even Dimitri and the rest of the boys have a questionable reaction. They just tilted their head to one side as they are trying to figure out what on earth is happening. "Yum yum!" Said the child, and I can honestly feel his tiny little wet tongue on my skin. "And the gangster pheromone victimized another poor soul once again." Said Amy out of nowhere. She looked so stunning with her glittery red dress. She stood there, arms intertwined in front of her and just looks at me just like Niki''s other men. Niki stood beside me with his cane in his other hand. "Is this boy--?" "Yes this is him Niki." I replied without letting him finish his question. "This Irish boy sure does move fast." Alexei said as he squats to look at the kid. The grandmother of Jacob apologized like there''s no tomorrow. It turns out, Jacob is the grandson of the Irish Mob Boss, who''s in alliance with Niki as well. They smuggle guns from Moscow to Irnd. The Russian Mafia supplies them with the guns, and Andrey the brother of Yuri facilitates the business in Moscow. No wonder why the boy also wears a cute little gold bowtie. When they were able to remove the boy from my thigh, he cried like there''s no tomorrow causing a scene in the whole Ballroom. So I took him from his grandmother and held him in my arms. The naughty little boy wrapped his arms around my neck like he doesn''t want to let go. I just brushed his back with my palm and swung him lightly. Just a few minutes and he''s out, sleeping like an angel with tiny little devil horns. My goodness. The Irish Mob boss and the boy''s uncle apologized to me and Niki for the little rascal''s behavior. Niki told them that this is not the first time that the boy did this to me. The Irish looked even more horrified. They exined that the boy is usually mischievous but not to this extent. They were surprised themselves by how the boy acted. I was about to go back to the sofa but I was halted when I heard my name once again from a vaguely familiar voice. "Belle? I knew it was you! Why you ain''t ying ball with us no more?" It''s Matty and his gang of baseball boys. They are wearing tuxedos all dapper and formal with that all too familiar New Yorker swag. They are wearing blue pocket squares which means they are part of a crime family in alliance with the Cabana Cartel. What are these kids even doing here? These are my baseball buddies back at the brownstone New York, my old apartment. "Kids? What are you doing here?" I asked, all puzzled and confused. They attempted to get in behind the velvet rope but Boris and Dimitri already stopped them. "No, it''s okay. I know them. They are my friends. Please let them in, Dimi, Boris." Dimitri and Boris looked at me all puzzled but they let the boys in any way. They all huddled and hugged me like they actually missed me. My heart instantly melted. I remember ying baseball with these boys on several asions with Sawyer and I actually had so much fun. They were my friends when I was still new to the ce. "I told ya I''m not a kid anymore Belle!" Matty said, adjusting his bow tie, looking a little embarrassed. "So Volkov is ya man? Dope." He added while looking at Niki and making the peace sign close to his heart, the back of his hand facing us. "Mad respect Bro, you got our main girl right here." Said the other kid in eyesses, I already forgot his name. Now that I got a closer look at them, I think they have grown taller in just a few months'' time. Everyone from the Russian Mafia looks so amused with how sure these kids are with themselves. Even Niki and Alexei have smiles stered on their faces. "Uhm well, what are you boys doing here?" I asked as I am really curious what crime family they belong to. "My pops run some business in Brooklyn. Henry''s pops run some business with Ax-you know our man Axel. And Aki and Yuki''s pops run some Japanese ramen shop." He said jokingly, teasing the two other boys. "I kid, they part of the Yakuza but they have business with Ax as well." As they reveal their real backgrounds I feel like a lump in my throat is slowly forming. Yikes. I have been ying with the kids of some serious Gangster families and I did not have a single clue about it. Is the gangster pheromone really true? "Hey, we gotta dash but if you need anything, we''re here for you. We got you, Belle." Says Matty as he points his wrist for a fist bump. I gave them all fist bumps before they went their way. "Alright, that''s enough visitors for tonight. We are closing shop." Says Alexei as he scoops me and ced me beside Niki who just took his meds administered by Amy. Thank goodness my best friend is here. Niki then signaled the other boys to guard the entrance to our area and to close the velvet rope separating us from the crowd. "I swear I''m gonna fucking shoot whoever even think of crossing that rope and lick or touch you again." Niki said and I''m not sure if he is being serious or not. "Niki, those are just kids." I retorted. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. He just drinks his scotch while his brother is talking to someone on the phone. "It''s about time." Alexei said. He then stood up and palmed my face and kissed me on my lips. "I''ll be back princess. Lay low on attracting too many criminals will you?" He said teasingly. God, why is this man so gorgeous and sweet at the same time? "Can''t promise." I winked at him. The party is just beginning but I feel like I could notst the whole night if I''m this stressed out. I usually don''t get this tired easily but perhaps my pregnancy is taking a toll on me. Amy got me water and some food and a banana which somehow made me feel better. She then went back to the Albanian Mob''s side to join her brother. I propped my back on my husband''s side and ced my head on his shoulder. He then wrapped his arm around my back and rested his hand on my abdomen. "After this meeting, we are going back to New York so you can rest. Amy told me that you can''t be this stressed out. I''m sorry baby. " He said so sweet and gentle. He then rubs my abdomen and kisses my hair. "No Niki, you don''t have to apologize. As your wife, it is my job to support you and your brother. We are family. And the family got each other''s backs. These two little Volkovs inside me are with you and Alexei. We are here, cheering for you." "You are perfect, my beautiful Queen. I don''t know what I will do without you." Niki whispered in my ear. "You and your brother will always have me. We are team Volkov forever and ever. Oooh-did you hear that? The twins said, go poppa! Someday we''re going to be just like you!" I said while mimicking a small voice. His embrace got even tighter this time. He breathes deep and I know that he is very excited to see his twins. He wanted to have a baby since the beginning of our rtionship and now he''s expecting not only one but two tiny Volkovs. I too am beyond excited. These babies were made out of love. And they will grow up in a family full of love and affection. I am sure of that. "I better watch my back though. I have seen how that licker kid was aiming for you at such a young age. I can''t believe he got to your second base twice! Goddammit! I might have to demolish the Irish Mob this early. What do you think?" Niki said teasingly. This actually made me giggle. As the band continues to y some amazing Spanish songs, people are making way to clear the center of the ballroom and went to their respective crime families. When everyone was able to settle down, Alexei casually entered the ballroom with the wolves, Petrushka and Valkyre. The two magnificent creatures are walking on both sides, high and mighty. Their silky-soft greyish white fur and those piercing grey eyes are such a marvel to see. It''s like they exude the exact same charm of the Volkov Brothers of the Russian Mafia. Looking around, I can see that the women are already under the spell of Alexei Viktor Volkov. I even received a message from Amy. | Hot damn! Conglomerate panties are dropping tonight B! You better put that man on a leash. | I replied. | I know A. He''s too friggin attractive and he''s mine. Gah!| Amy replied back: | A moment of silence for all the soaked vaginas tonight.| I just giggled at her naughtiness. She looks at me from the other side of the rope while smiling like an idiot. I just shook my head. The wolves went to me and Niki then settled on Niki''s front and left sides as Alexei went back sitting beside me. This time, the next person who entered the Ballroom had a huge tiger on a leash with him. The tiger roared so loud it made the people gasp in both awe and fear and then a round of apuse followed. The man momentarily waved at the people around and then proceeded to the area next to us, the De Alba''s. I''m assuming that this is Axel De Alba, the big boss of the Cabana Cartel. However, my heart skipped a beat when I got a clearer view of Axel De Alba himself. He sat on his chair, just like Niki''s, looked in our direction, and then winks at me mischievously. At this point, I swallowed the lump in my throat as I kinda have an idea what will happen next. Chapter 19 Chapter 19 Belle''s POV Sebastian the delivery guy is none other than Axel De Alba, the head of the Cabana Cartel. He looked in my direction a couple of times but I just hiss at him. I actually don''t like his guts anymore. I don''t get why he had to pretend to be someone else when he could have just introduced himself that time. I mean, how hard is it for a boss to be a normal human being for once? "You''ve met De Alba?" Niki asked, clenching his jaw while looking in Axel''s direction. And I can see that the Cartel Boss is enjoying every bit of reaction he''s getting from Niki. If looking at someone could kill, Axel would have been dead minutes ago. I ced my palm on top of Niki''s hand and squeezed it gently to get his attention. He''s holding the gold wolf head of the cane tightly, the veins in his hand are already showing. I told Niki how Axel and I met and it looks like it pissed him off even more. This is not a time for a jealous Niki. We are in a business gathering and he should be focused on business and not some petty jealousy. "What''s that fucker''s problem?" Alexei said with furrowed eyebrows, as he sits beside me while holding a ss of liquor. And this is definitely not a good time for a jealous Alexei. Two jealous Volkovs is not a good "Apparently, they''ve met." Niki responded to Alexei. I swallowed the lump in my throat. I feel like I did something wrong although I don''t see why this is This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. supposed to be my fault. "I did not intend to keep this from the two of you. I did not even know that the man who delivered food to me was--him." I answered and I''m so close to getting annoyed, mad even! "You two are making it sound like I enjoy being in this position. I don''t!" "What position exactly?" Niki asked. I don''t know if it''s just my pregnant hormones messing with my mood but his question left a bad taste in my mouth. I removed my palm from the back of his hand. In my mind, I''m already screaming my response to his question. The position of being used of being a whore! Oh wait-- let me be exact. The Russian Boss'' whore. The Albanian Boss'' whore. And now the Cartel Boss'' whore! I kept my mouth shut. I''m so mad at him right now. I squeezed my palm just to prevent myself from I attempted to stand up but Niki already caught me by my arm, pulling me back to my seat. "Let go of me at once or I swear to god Niki I''m going to leave and go back home tonight and I don''t mean New York." I say as calm as possible but deep inside, I want to transform into a full-blown hormonal bitch. "Do not let go brother." Alexei said, with a fake smirk on his face while raising his ss of scotch to someone in the crowd. He''s smiling but his demeanor is causing chills to run down my spine. "One more talk about leaving us and I will drag you myself back to New York and lock you in the fucking basement on a fucking leash wrapped around your neck. You know I will enjoy every second of it." Alexei rarely gets mad but when he does, he is dead serious and it''s scary. "You and your brother are sick in the head." I tried to remove myself from Niki''s tight grip but after several attempts, I gave up because it actually hurts. To make matters worse, Axel is approaching our direction together with his entourage. My goodness! What is this man''s problem? Boris remained standing blocking the way behind the velvet rope while Yuri and Dimitri await Niki''s signal. My husband drinks his scotch first before signaling the boys to let Axel De Alba''s entourage in. His men and Niki''s men squared off, face to face, looking so damn serious that they can actually snap each other''s necks. Axel''s men took one of the chairs and ced it to face right across Niki and when he was able tofortably sit down, the Cartel boss ordered one of the servers to give me something from the silver tter. It''s a tiny box with a royal blue ring studded with diamonds. The design is almost like the blood-red ring that Artan gave me, the female version of his ring. And now that I have noticed, it''s also simr to the dark green and diamond ring that I''m wearing right now that Niki made me wear among others. This must be some kind of a conglomerate symbol or something. Alexei snorted and he looked annoyed more than anything. He spoke in Russian which his brother also responded in the same sexynguage. The tension lingering in the air is undeniable. And it is also starting to get the attention of the people in the ballroom. "For her protection, just in case." Axel said while looking at Niki. This time all of Niki''s and Axel''s men are surrounding us while facing the crowd. The Cartel Boss then stood up from his chair, took the box, and attempted to step in my direction. The audacity of this man is astonishing! It''s like he''s not even concerned by how Niki might react to his actions. I have never seen a man as unfazed as him towards the Russian Mafia Boss, towards Volkov. Maybe perhaps he''s a Boss in his own right as well. I mean, not just a Boss but someone who has equal footing in the Conglomerate as Niki. My husband, despite his wound, stood up from his chair. He has not spoken a single word to Axel and that''s what scares me the most. I know my husband too well. He does not mess around when ites to protecting me. Before anything happens, I decided to interrupt. "Niki, may I speak with you, Alexei and Sebast--- I mean Axel somewhere private?" I held on to Niki''s arm and ignored the Cartel Boss. I really wanted to dismiss Axel De Alba myself but then I remember that he is the host of this year''s Conglomerate Meeting and I know how pride is a big of a deal to a man, let alone to a crime Boss, so I decided to confront him without the whole Conglomerate witnessing, lest I unwittingly start a mob war. The nearest private ce that we could hideout is the kitchen. When we entered, especially when they saw Niki and Axel enter side by side, all the kitchen staff and the chefs froze like they saw the gods or something. Between the steam from the boiling pots and the sizzling sound of the mouthwatering food that they are cooking,plete and utter silence filled the room. And then with just one flick of Axel''s hand, they dropped whatever they are doing and left the kitchen just like that. The Cartel Boss and the Mafia Boss'' men waited outside while the four of us were left in the kitchen. Just to be perfectly sure, I took all the knives and dumped them all inside the drawer. "Baby, careful with the knives please!" Niki said and I can sense that he is already hanging by a thread. "Princess, don''t worry, I''m not gonna be using a knife if I have to kill De Alba, that''s for sure." Alexei inserted while looking at Axel. The Cartel Boss just drinks his scotch with a smile on his face. "Shush you two! I know what I''m doing." I too am running out of patience. I am still upset with what they did to me a while ago in the ballroom. I have always known that Niki and Alexei are control freaks. And I understand that they are being like that for my own protection but I also have a breaking point. And I swear I''m so close to that point. Axel is talking to Niki and Alexei while looking at me intently as I go back to my husband''s side. My hands are already itching to p him on his lying face. The time when he introduced himself as Sebastian was uneptable. He acts like we''ve known each other for so long. It''s weird. "Mi amorcita." Axel said without a single regard that he is literally just beside both my Niki and Alexei. "Fuck you De Alba." Niki interrupts. He then talked to Alexei in Russian, grabs me by my arm, and pushed me lightly towards his brother as if shooing me away from the scene. I fought my way to remove Alexei''s hands off of me. "You don''t get to just push me around Niki! Let go of me at once Alexei! And you Axel! How dare you! Stop calling me amorcita because we are not friends and I am not your Amor. Whatever it is that you are trying to do, the answer is no! I do not need your protection! I am Volkov''s wife and Niki''s ring is the only protection I need in the wives'' meeting. So thank you for your concern but I don''t need your protection. Did I make myself clear?" He just looks at me intently. His lips parted momentarily before a smirk is formed on his face. My goodness! What is wrong with this man? "Now will the three of you please, give me some space! My arm is about to bruise because, for the most part of this night, I have been dragged, pushed, and controlled and quite honestly, I feel suffocated and hungry! I need air, and this----bacon." I grabbed a handful of bacon strips from the te on the counter because, to be honest my stomach has been rumbling. "Also, don''t kill each other just yet, you have a Conglomerate to run. Excuse me." I attempted to leave but Niki was about to protest so I connected my pointer finger across his lips to prevent him from talking. "I''m going out, breathe some fresh air and eat my bacon in peace. Nobody touches me or I swear I''m going to lose my mind!" Chapter 20 Chapter 20 - Niki, Alexei, Axel, Artan and Matushka are standing side by side while waiting for Belle. Matushka: Do I still need to ask why the Queen of the Russian Mafia is eating bacon strips like it''s licorice candy and shooting the death re whenever she looks at the four of you? Momentary Silence Artan: I just arrived. Axel: I am just trying to protect her. Niki: She''s my wife so she''s protected. Alexei: Back off or I will kill you De Alba. Axel: Is that a joke? Because to be honest that''s quite funny. (Matushka guided Niki to the side to talk to him.) Matushka: Niki, get your shit together. I know Belle''s pregnancy is overwhelming you. That''s understandable. But just imagine what she''s going through as well. She''s pregnant with your twins and she also takes care of you and your brother at the same time. And baby boy, you and your brother are not the easiest men to take care of. Trust me I know! Please, don''t make this way harder for her. Be gentle, listen to her, and trust her decisions. Niki: She''s stubborn and she attracts these men like fucking nectar to a bee! Matushka: Is it her fault that she attracts men? Absolutely not! It''s your fault because you can''t seem to handle a woman who is exceptionally beautiful with an equally beautiful heart. I am sure your father, wherever part of hell he''s in right now is very disappointed in you Niki. And one more thing, your brother is taking cues from you. So you better get your act straight before he does something to De Alba and bring the whole Conglomerate down. He''s as blind as you when ites to the princess. Now get your shit together. - Belle''s POV "Mind if I join you?" A familiar voice said from the back. The moment the cool breeze gently blew his signature scent towards me, I knew it was him. "Artan." He enfolded me in between his arms. He then twirls my hair to the back of my ear and brushed my face with the back of his hand gently. "Hey." He said. "You look beautiful tonight." "Thanks. You too." I replied. He just chuckles in response. "Artan. Thank you for staying on Niki''s side of the Conglomerate despite what happened. I''m so d to see Aria wearing the gold ribbon." "Aria can''t be with De Alba''s side. She may be a Bogdani but she''s also a Volkov. " "I know." "You know?" Artan asked like he actually did not expect me to know about Aria''s rtionship with Niki. "Yah. Niki told me that he''s Aria''s Godfather." For some weird reason, Artan looked relieved. "Ah, yes. Godfather." "Uhm. Why? Is there something else I need to know?" I asked. "If there''s anything, I''m pretty sure I''m in no position to tell you." He retorted. "So there is actually something that I should know?" He''s hiding something. I can just see it in his eyes. "That''s not what I said. Now, are you gonna give me some of that bacon or what? You''ve been pointing it in front of my nose for the past thirty seconds." "You are being evasive. You know, whatever that is, I will probably find out sooner orter. I always do." I fed him with some bacon and he would bite my fingerically. "Where have you been? Adnan told me you were doing some business before the Conglomerate meeting." "You miss me?" He asked so gently. "Yes." I replied as a matter of factly. "Also, I have to return something to you. Close your eyes." "Why do I have to close my eyes?" "Because I have to get the thing from my bra." "Well then." He said, opening his eyes too wide while looking at my bosoms. I instantly smack him on his face. My goodness, this man! I thought he would stress me out even more but then, the gentleman turned around to give me some privacy. He ces his hands inside his pockets as he waits for me to finish. Before we left the vi, I made sure to bring Artan''s ring so I can return this to him but I did not want Niki or Alexei to see that I''m wearing it. I thought to be extra careful not to cause the Russians and Albanians to kill each other again just because of a ring. I did not want to put it in my purse as there were instances before that I lose important things in it. So I decided to hide it inside my bra. Just like some old people I know. It''s funny but effective. "You can turn around now." I said as I hand him his ring. "Oh." "What do you mean oh?" "I gave that ring to you Baby. That''s a gift." "Artan, I know what this is. This is not just an ordinary ring that you give to someone. This is your Conglomerate ring and you ought to give this to your future wife." "Yes. And in the meantime that my future wife doesn''t exist, I''m asking you to keep it." "Artan." All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. "We will talk about this some other time. Please just keep this ring with you in the wives'' meeting. One ring means one vote. Volkov''s and Axel''s rings have two votes each. You don''t have to put the Cartel''s ring or mine on your fingers. All you have to do is show them on the table." "I don''t need---" "Belle, please just in case." "Artan, this is not a decision that I can just make. Niki and Alexei have to agree to this. And besides, you are acting as paranoid as those three. Calm down. I will be fine." - Axel: (Chuckles and then shakes his head while ncing at Niki) Wow! Now I perfectly understand why the Albanians almost vanished from the face of the earth! Shit! The man got it so fucking bad with your wife! (Continues looking at Artan and Belle in utter amusement) Niki: I trust my wife. That''s all I need. Alexei: They are - friends. Very special kind of friends but still-just friends. Axel: Your confidence in your wife impresses me Volkov. Niki: Let''s get down to business shall we? I want to leave this country first thing in the morning. I have a pregnant wife to take care of. Axel: Ohe on Volkov! Still a party pooper after all these years?! Alexei: Shut up, De Alba. (Walks with his brother and leaves Axel behind) - Belle''s POV Niki and Axel nod at each other and then their right-hand men signaled the other crime families. One by one, the Bosses stood up, along with their wives, and went to the hallway. I thought the meeting was going to be in one of the huge rooms in the Coco Cabana Hotel but rather, we were escorted to the back where cars are lined up in a narrow driveway. Axel De Alba, took the first limousine, then ours, then Artan''s and so on. "Where are we going Niki?" "To a secure location. Only De Alba knows." He answers while trying to pull me to sit on hisp. He insisted despite his gunshot wound so I try to sit on the other thigh while both my feet rest on Alexei''s knees. "I''m sorry baby." He said while burying his face on my neck. "I''m still mad at you and Alexei but I''m going to forget about it for now." I brush my palm on the back of his head gently. "After this meeting, can you and your brother take a break from VH and from Mafia duties so I can take care of the both of you and tend to your wound?" "Sure, Boss." Niki answered. Alexei just made a thumbs up. His eyes are closed while resting his head on the backrest of the seat. I took Alexei''s hand and massaged it. His tattoos are already peeking out of his sleeve. I kissed his ring and then Niki''s. I traced the veins on their hands with my kisses and I can see that they actually like it. Soon enough, we arrived at what looks like a modern high rise building. It particrly stands out because of its sheer height and its sparkling blue color with lights shooting from the different sides of the building. If there''s one word I can describe Axel, it would be shy. His building is sparkling like the Eiffel friggin tower in Paris. Chapter 21 Chapter 21 Belle''s POV The rooftop of the blue sparkling building has two helipads. Each family was escorted one by one to the helicopters that areing in, in intervals. They are like dragonflies just hovering around the building waiting for the Bosses and the Wives to take off-- one family at a time. I really thought that we are going to hold the Bosses'' meeting in this building but apparently, we''re about to be transferred to another location only Axel and Niki know of. The Volkov Mafia and Axel De Alba''s choppers have alreadynded. Ours is all white with a gold monogram V below and on the side. It''s so white and shiny it really stands out in the night sky. I''m holding my dress together so as not to bear my soul to the world while my ever sweet and loving Alexei is holding the other end of my long dress since it''s flying uncontrobly as we approach our helicopter. When I was able to sit downfortably, Alexei tightened my seatbelt and made sure it was perfectly intact. "We have men on standby waiting for you in the safe house. We will fetch you after the meeting." At first, I was confused. What safe house? And why fetch? And then it quickly became apparent that my husbands have a different n when he closed the helicopter''s door and signaled the pilot to fly. Niki, Alexei, Matushka, and the other men are just looking at me as I was being flown away from them. I felt so betrayed. I was so dumb stricken I wasn''t able to say a single word. I can see how-of all the helicopters-mine is the only one going in a different direction. Is this how helpless and weak Niki and Alexei think of me? That they could not even trust me to handle being a mafia wife? And they did not even consider that I have acrophobia. I am terrified of heights. If they wanted me gone, they could have just sent me off a car or even a friggin train! I can bear flying via airne because I don''t get to see the height but a helicopter? I can friggin see my death in this ss coffin! My legs are trembling. I feel so alone and terrified. I want to cry, but then if I cry, I will just prove them right. I swallowed the lump in my throat and held back my tears. As I try to inhale deep so I can rx and calm myself, I suddenly felt a streak of pain in my abdomen. Oh god. I almost forgot that I am pregnant. My little ones, please give momma some more strength? Your father thinks he''s protecting us but he is just making momma get so angry with him instead. I close my eyes and rub my tummy gently. It''s going to be okay. I''m going to be okay. This is just normal pregnancy pain. There''s nothing to worry about. Instead of feeling bad for myself, I must think of a way so that this will not happen again. If I just let this one slide, I would not be able to prove to the people around me, especially my husband that I can manage to be his wife on my own-without his or his brother''s help. That I can stand and make decisions for myself. That I deserve to wear Volkov''s ring in the wives'' meeting. That I''m not just Niki Vyachev Volkov''s little weakly wife. I dare not look outside the window. My body is still trembling but I need to rise above my phobia if I want to prove a point. Anger starts to simmer inside my heart. I was blindsided by my own family. I took a deep breath and slowly reach for my thigh where the holster of my gun is safely tucked. I unhooked my seatbelt and crawled my way to the back of the pilot. I pointed my gun at him but of course, I made sure it''s on safety. I tapped his shoulder to get his attention. _ THE BOSSES'' MEETING Drinks are now being served to the Bosses of the Conglomerate. They are smoking and drinking while their right-hand men are standing on the back of the seat of their respective Bosses. Niki: Since Yvanislov and all of his family members are formally expelled from the Conglomerate, I propose that an order of termination be meted out against every single member of their family. Any member of the Conglomerate who conspires coborates, exchanges correspondence in whatever form with any member of their family thereof shall also be terminated without reprieve. (Niki stamps his seal to a piece of paper with the insignia of an order to kill the Yvanislov Family) If there''s anyone who objects to this order, I suggest that you ce it on the table for deliberation. If there''s none, the paper shall be passed on to you for your seal. Unnamed Boss: What is the pleasure of the Cabana Cartel to this termination order? (Some Bosses who are aligned to Axel is expecting the Cartel Boss to object to Volkov''s proposal as he usually did in the past. When there''s objection, the Conglomerate moves to a vote. Niki holds the majority of the Bosses'' votes while Axel does not) Axel: I do not see why I should not stamp my seal on this. The Conglomerate will show no mercy to the traitor. Artan: I second. This should not even be up for deliberation. Is anyone here even thinking of pushing Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. this to a vote? -silence- Axel: Very well, consequences in case of breach of this covenant shall be carried out by the full force of the Conglomerate. I shall now put my seal to this order, without reservation. (Artan and the rest of the Bosses stamped their respective seals to the termination order. The moderatrix of the meeting then ced the paper on fire in the middle of the table. All the Bosses knocked on the table twice as they watch the paper beingpletely burned) (As thest item in the organization''s agenda has already been dispensed with, the Bosses prepare to witness the wives meeting) (Axel and his men however were put on alert as they were informed that a helicopter was heading towards their direction and it looked like it''s one of the Russian''s. Axel instructed his men to tighten the security as the chopper rounds the fort. They went to one of the balconies of the old castle to see if it''s really one of Niki''s helicopters) Artan: Are you expecting someone Volkov? Alexei: Not that we know of. Everyone from the Mafia is ounted for on the ind, except for the wife. (Dials his phone to confirm if Belle arrived in the safe house) (Niki adjusts his tie as he has an idea who''s in the helicopter. He looks at his brother for confirmation but Alexei shook his head. His brother just got off the phone with one of their people in the safe house and they were informed that they are still waiting for her.) Niki: De Alba, tell your men to stand down. It''s my wife. (Belle steps down the helicopter. She looks livid and she''s heading straight towards the castle unfazed by the security details) Axel: (Laughs) Wow. The Mrs. is not joking around. Artan: I told you it was a bad idea. Axel: Sucks to be you right now my man. Niki: Nobody touches her. Not even for a security check. Axel: You know the protocol Volkov. Alexei: Do you actually think that she is a fucking security threat? Axel: She once started a mob war. Niki: I said, nobody touches her! Axel signals one of his people to do the body search on Belle. Axel: She''s one of mine. Don''t worry, she will be gentle. Chapter 22 Chapter 22 Belle''s POV I instructed the pilot to hover over the ind beforending. I just want to pinpoint the exact location of my husband first. I am here Niki, baby. Your wife is here. Where are you idiot? Did you really think sending me away is a good idea? So this is where the real Conglomerate meeting is taking ce. It''s like a fortress on a secluded ind. High stone walls, a friggin Castle in the middle, and open-air grounds where cars and several helicopters are parked. It''s beautiful really. There--- he-- is. The man with three legs. He''s standing with Alexei, Axel, and Artan. My legs are terribly shaking as I look down. Yet my phobia seems to be overpowered by my desire to teach Niki some very important lessons. I am fuming. My heart is about to explode in anger. He always does this. He keeps me in the blind all the time, all because he''s thinking that he''s protecting me. I held on to my seat as the helicopternds carefully. I ced my gun back in the holster as I prepare to step out. I''m not keen on the attention that I''m getting from the security people right now but it''s pretty hard to keep a low profile especially when you arrive in a goddam helicopter! My dress looks tamed even though the wind from the rotor of the helicopter is blowing really hard. I should thank Matushkater for this. It is mermaid cut, has a high slit showing my chubby legs and even chubbier thighs. And my boobs look amazing through thecey top. I undeniably look regal. Slutty--- but still regal. When I reached the foyer of the castle, Niki, Alexei, Axel, Artan, and their men are already on top of the stairs as if waiting for me. I was then halted by a woman who''s wearing a sexy blue dress. She''s a brte with piercing grey eyes, rouge lipstick, and a very noticeable tiger tattoo on her cleavage. She looks so badass and sexy at the same time. I saw her taking orders from Axel just a while ago. She must be one of Axel De Alba''s people. "Mrs. Volkov, surrender any concealed weapons please." She said waiting for me to hand over my gun. Niki and Alexei said that I should always protect myself. There is no way I''m surrendering my gun to her. "Get out of my way." I retorted. "Mrs. Volkov, it''s protocol. Everyone in this organization follows protocol. That means, even Volkov''s wife should follow the rules. No weapons in the meeting. Security of everyone is guaranteed by the host." She replied. "What makes you think I have a weapon to surrender?" Shit. I can see from my position that Niki is already getting agitated and Alexei is looking at Axel all annoyed. Oh my goodness. I should really drop this before my husbands overreact to the situation. Before I could even decide, the woman took me by surprise by bending down to search me from my ankles with both of her hands. She''s looking me in the eye as she drops in front of me. Her palms gently brushed my skin, sliding with ease up to the back of my knees to my thighs. Her lips slightly pulled to the side in a naughty smile when she felt the holster of my gun. She stood up, pulled me by my waist until there was not an inch of space between the two of us. Her other hand crawled under my dress while her eyes are still focused on my face. I felt her unhook my gun from the holster and showed me that she got it. She winked at me mischievously while handing the gun to one of Axel''s men. I just bit my lower lip in embarrassment. I thought that was over but then she signaled using her finger that I turn my back. Of course I did not submit. "Suit yourself." She said with her thick Spanish ent. She again pulled me to her and then reached for my bum and stayed there for a good several seconds before gliding her palms up my back, down Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. my waist, and then to my sides, all the way up the side of my breasts. I feel like any moment from now this woman is going to make out with me. This is way beyond a normal pat-down. I mean she''s sexy and all but I just don''t roll that way. My best friend and I would kiss but it''s nothing awkward or weird like this. But then again, I can see that the people around us are waiting for my reaction so I decided to just y it cool to get this little show done and over with. I leaned forward so our faces are just inches away. Her longshes fluttered in amazement. I touched her lips with my fingertips slowly and gently and then traced the curve of her jaw. "Are we good?" I asked as seductively as I can. She was left speechless and so I took the chance to get away. I removed myself from her arms and left her there. I went straight towards my husband who is now smoking a cigar right next to his brother. Alexei just downed a ss of hard liquor as Ie near them. "A word, Niki, Alexei." I said as calmly as I can. In truth, my heart wants to explode in anger. I know that Alexei, the other love of my life is not to be med for this. I know this is all Niki. He is the devil as between him and his brother. I am a hundred percent sure of that. Still, I am so mad at him for agreeing to his brother in sending me away. It means that he also doesn''t believe that I can protect myself in the wives'' meeting. Niki tried to reach for the small of my back as we walk side by side but I instantly refused him. I hate him so much. I can''t even stand looking at his beautiful godly face. Axel and Artan excused themselves to go back inside the meeting rooms. I just waited for a few more seconds so I can do what I have been wanting to do since my helicopter ride. I asked for some privacy from Yuri, Boris, and Dimitri, they obliged and turn their backs on us. Niki attempted to grab me once again but I swatted his hand off of me. I looked him straight in the eye and punched him in the face as hard as I can. He looked to the side when my punchnded. My hand is shaking and I feel like the back of my hand is going to bleed. I held on to his tuxedo tightly and looked him straight in the eyes. "If you can''t respect me as your wife, I''m getting a divorce. So don''t fuck with me again Niki." I let go of him and warned the two not to touch me or else I''m going home to Pwi at once and they will never see me again and our babies. They know for a fact that I can make that happen. "Hey, can you take me to the Wives'' Meeting?" I said a little louder to the woman in a blue dress and a tiger tattoo. She obliged much to her glee. Matushka looked like she''s already waiting for me at the wives table. She''s standing right next to an empty seat with a smile on her face. She looked so proud of me foring through. If there''s one person who is all for women ruling the world, it would be Matushka. One of the toughest women I have ever known in my life. Everyone has settled and only the soft sound of the jazz band ying and the asional chattering from the Bosses'' table can be heard. There are three empty chairs at the table, and I think I have an idea to whom the chairs belong to. One chair is abination of gold and red velvet, the other one is royal blue and diamond and the other one is abination of white, gold, and dark green with a monogram V etched on it. "Princess, you have made Matushka really proud tonight. Remember, you are Volkov''s Queen. Show these lousy bitches how it''s done. Now go on, take a seat on your throne." "Thank you Matushka. But where are you going?" "My sweet sweet princess. It''s time for Matushka to retire from the Conglomerate wives table. My time has passed. But don''t worry, I will be there with my boys to watch over you." The one presiding over the wives'' meeting rang a small ss bell to get the attention of everyone. She was ncing over at us and clearing her throat being all righteous and snobby. She reminds me so much of those Stepford wives. The perfect- cupcake baking--Chanel N¡ã5 Eau de parfum -wearing kind of wives. "We have been interrupted, but let us not lost focus on the important matters that we have lined up. Shall we?" Said Mrs. Stepford as if she did not see me approach the table. Yikes. No matter. I sat on my rightful seatfortably and crossed my legs over the other effectively showing my chubby thighs which I am rather proud of. I did not care about the judging stareing from the other wives who look like Matushka''s age. At this point, I feel like nothing can actually intimidate me. Not even all of these wivesbined. I mean I just punched the Russian Mafia Boss in his face. Is there anything else I cannot do? Although I highly doubt if I will get away with it judging by how Niki is looking at me right now. His dark green eyes have turned even darker and I think I know what that devil is thinking at this precise moment. to be continued... Chapter 23 Chapter 23 Belle''s POV "Victoria, before we continue, may we wee the newest member of the Wives Circle?" Said one of the wives to Victoria, the one presiding the meeting. Mrs. Stepford looked like she did not appreciate the suggestion at all and she''s not even trying to hide it. I admire her though, she doesn''t seem to care that Niki and Alexei are in the audience. She dislikes me and she''s owning it. "We have begun our meeting more than twenty minutes ago. She came crashing and interrupting the meeting with not so much of a courtesy. I don''t think thedy needs any more introduction." Replied Victoria, ncing at me momentarily and then looking back to her notes. I can hear chattering from the people outside the velvet rope the moment she said that. Some of the wives on the table have smiles on their faces while others, I mean most of them looked surprised. So this is why the people close to my heart warn me against attending this meeting? Just because of some petty and insignificant power struggle? I''m just holding back myself from rolling my eyes so hard. The Conglomerate is a criminal organization, it''s not like we are doing good for the world or something. All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. Part of me regrets going through the hassle of facing my acrophobia and punching my husband in the face all because of this. I could have been sleeping my pregnant ass at the rest house at this very moment but no, Mary Arabe Volkov wanted to prove a point. I notice that the wives are also wearing their own unique rings representing each crime family. And the one that Victoria is wearing is almost dark purple. I know very well that she only has one vote and perhaps she will get some other votes from the other wives. I let out an automatic scoff. Victoria is being a bitch but she can''t back it up. That''s so frigginme. I made sure that Niki''s ring is in ce before I connected my gaze on Axel, who is now drinking and smoking a cigar with some other Bosses. I showed her the back of my hand hoping he gets my signal. A naughty smirk slowly appears on his face when our eyes met. As much as I hate his guts, I know that if pushes to shove his two votes will y a huge difference. Since Axel is single, ording to the rules, he can assign his ring to whomever he wants. Same as with Artan, the man who always has my back and fought my husband, the devil himself, just to get me. Axel De Alba downs his liquor and then went to Artan. They talked for a few seconds before Axel signaled the person guarding the velvet rope to let him in. Like the Boss that he really is, he walks with that certain electrifying presence and approached the wives table like a friggin god. Upon his signal, his own Conglomerate chair was ced beside me, to the amusement and bewilderment of the people around us. He crossed his legs over the other and smoothly removed the royal blue vintage diamond ring from his ring finger. I try so hard not to roll my eyes at him. He could have just lent me the female version of his ring. Not his own damn ring! And he could just have someone deliver the ring to me. But no, he really wants to make a scene. He then gently caught my hand and inserted his ring around my pointer finger. He kisses his ring first and then the back of my hand. "Mi amorcita Belle. I never thought my ring would caress such a delicate hand." "Yah yah. I got it from here De Alba." Said Niki who just appeared from nowhere. He removes my hand from Axel''s and then sat to my right. He forces my right hand to hisp and then ced an icepack on my now bruised knuckles. I don''t know if I''m going to be mad because of his possessiveness or I''m just going to appreciate his sweet gesture of tending to my bruise -- the result of the punch thatnded on his beautiful face. s, my love for the man prevailed over everything else. I squeeze his thigh gently, letting him know that I appreciate him doing this. He''s looking down straight on my knuckles, his dark green eyesced with worry and madness at the same time. It''s quite frightening really. Axel just lets out a smirk and to my surprise, kisses me on my hair. Thank goodness Niki is so focused on my hand he did not see what Axel just did. I looked at the Cartel Boss and shook my head at him signaling not to taunt Niki further. "Niki, Axel please?" I said, hoping that they realize how bad I want to do this on my own. I know that more than anything else, they are here to protect me but I will just look like the spineless little wife of Volkov if I let them continue doing this. Axel stood up from his chair and buttoned back his tuxedo. He nods to the other wives as he excuses himself from the table. My husband on the other hand still did not budge. I did not have a choice but to stand up to talk to him somewhere private. When we are already alone, Niki pulled me towards him for a tight embrace. "I''m going to crush the German Mob. And that woman will kneel in front of you, begging for her life." Oh my goodness. "Niki, look at me. You are not going to do that. Promise me?" "I don''t make promises I have no intention to fulfill." He retorted. "You have to trust me. I will handle this. Okay? I know what to do with Victoria." I pleaded. "She disrespected you in front of everyone, she disrespected me. They will y dirty. And you my pure and innocent love is above that. You are above all those women." Instead of getting mad, my stupid heart just melted like a heated marshmallow. This man knows the exact words to say to leave me weak in the knees. This must be the reason why he doesn''t want me to attend the wives'' meeting. He doesn''t want me to end up being like the women of the conglomerate. In his own words, I am his pure and innocent love. "I''m doing my best to shield you from my world, but things are not going as I nned. I am losing control of the situation. And I don''t like losing control, especially when ites to you." He cups my face gently with his strong and veiny hands. "Niki, I am still the same, I am still your Belle. And trust me; you are still in full control of the situation, in full control of me. I just need a little breathing space. I need you to just trust me this time. Please?" "Just this time?" He replied. "Uhm maybe twice or thrice more in the near future?" I said teasing him. He just shook his head at me. "Promise me if I handle this meeting, you will not retaliate against the German Mob? " "Handle how? You have to be specific here woman. I am hanging by a very thin thread right now." "I will preside the meeting, taking over Victoria''s role. And that sparkly ss bell she''s holding? That''s going to be mine before the night ends." I answered without hesitation. This time, a small smile formed on Niki''s face. I know he will agree to this. Either way, we get to do something against the German Mob, if not his way, then my own little way. I just wish that I get to win this though. Niki''s way is going to be bloody and possibly will cause a rift in the Conglomerate. "Alright. I will wait." He replied. "You have to promise Niki!" "I told you, I make no promises I do not intend to fulfill. I will consider your proposal. First, show me what you got." Shit. He''s good. Do people even win against this man ever? "Okay. But first I need to see Alexei, where is he?" I need him badly. He''s been out of my sight for a while now. It''s like there''s this huge void in my heart when he''s not beside me. Niki nods towards Alexei''s direction. The man is at the Bar, drinking by himself and smoking. "What''s the matter with your brother?" "He just needs his princess." I wanted to give myself a good smack in the head seeing the other love of my life like this. There could be a lot of reasons why he''s by himself looking all serious while slowly drowning himself in alcohol but I think I know precisely the reason why. I told Niki I need to talk to his brother alone and so my ever- loving husband obliged. I went to Alexei and instantly hugged him from his side. I do not care if there are people from the conglomerate around us. My rtionship with Niki and Alexei is nobody''s business but mine and the Volkov Brothers. It caught him by surprise but when he figured it was me, he immediately pressed the tip of his cigar on the ashtray and blew the smoke away from my direction. I then moved the chair right next to him and made sure that there''s not an inch of gap between the two of us. I took his huge and veiny hands and kissed his ring while looking him straight in the eye. "I need you there." I said while cing his hand on my thigh. "Nah. You''ve got the two heads of the Conglomerate on your side. You''re good." I . Knew. It. Alexei rarely gets jealous but when he does, he bes stubborn and some serious Volkov tantrums happen. Chapter 24 Chapter 24 "Alexei." "De Alba looks cozy sitting on your side and kissing you." He retorted. "It was not what it looked like." I replied as a matter of factly. "You did not even object to his advances. You fucking like him." He snorts and then drinks his scotch all the way down. Oh my goodness. He is really pissed. There''s really nothing to be jealous or pissed about. "Alexei, please." "Madame Volkov. The meeting is about to resume. You are needed at the wives table." Said one of Axel''s men. "Your boyfriend is summoning you, Belle." "Fine, Alexei Viktor Volkov. I will go because you seem to be drunk and thus unreasonable. We will talk I am honestly starting to lose my patience. Not with Alexei because I know that he is under the influence of alcohol and he''s jealous. I just need to exin myself and ease him downter. To what I am losing my patience with is this stupid wives meeting which is nothing but a power y in a fancy tea party. It''s nonsensical really. As I approach the wives table, Victoria walked towards me for a private talk. The woman did not even hold back her words. "This is the second time that the wives meeting has been interrupted on your ount. If you could be more considerate of the time of the other wives, we won''t be having this conversation anymore." "Victoria, I did not ask for the meeting to be interrupted on ount of me. I excused myself because I have some important matters that I am dealing with. I am a considerate person that is why I politely excused myself so that you and the other wives won''t be able to witness my personal business." I replied without mincing my words. "And that personal business is? You''ve already seduced the Volkov Brothers. Are you now seducing your way to Axel De Alba? Artan Bogdani? Jakoby Quinn who is the only grandson of Irish Mob Boss? And the heir to the ck Mafia of Brooklyn, what''s the kid''s name?-- oh Matthias King and all the avable Bosses of the Conglomerate so you can have their money? Power? Conglomerate votes? Honey, your looks can only do so much." She looked at me from head to foot, looking all smug. Oh wow. This bitch. I can''t believe she just said that. Where did she even get this idea? She even mentioned Jakob the Irish child who is fond of my legs and Matty, my baseball friend-who for some cosmic reason I crossed path with the first time arrived in New York. "Excuse your foul mouth Victoria, but you don''t even know me and yet you''re already using me of vile things." I then grabbed her forearm so I can whisper to her ear. She flinched at first but I pulled her with more strength the second time, her eyes widened in disbelief. That''s right bitch. Be afraid. Be very afraid. "What I do with my life is none of your business. Who I seduce is also none of your business. So I am not going to exin myself to you and my rtionships with the men that surround me. One thing I can tell you though is that I can make your life miserable in the conglomerate for this. So stay away from me. And don''t even look at me." I let go of her and pushed her lightly so I can walk past her. I went back to my seat and took a deep breath since my insides are already shaking in anger. I am not used to confrontations especially when it''s for insignificant matters, but when I do engage in confrontations I tend to go overboard and get overwhelmed by my emotions to the point that I am actually thinking right now of agreeing to my husband to crush the German Mob his way. It took Victoria some time to go back to the wives table. I''m waiting for her to look at me so I can show her who exactly she''s dealing with but so far she''s looking at her notes with a serious look on her face. So far, so good. I nced in the Russian Mafia''s direction. Alexei is already on his brother''s side, holding a drink on his other hand, looking all serious. His hazel eyes are looking at me like a wolf that is about to devour its prey. Exactly what his brother is doing as well. Geez Belle, guess who''s not sleeping well tonight? You have managed to piss off Niki and Alexei at the same time but onpletely different reasons. One for punching your husband in the face and going against his judgment and the other one for making him feel jealous of Axel. "The meeting is now finally resumed." Said Victoria, ringing the ss bell she''s holding. "Victoria, before we proceed may I propose a toast for the newest member of the Conglomerate wives?" Says one of thedies across Victoria, she looks cordial and younger than most women in the wives circle, and a little bit drunk I suppose. She smiles at me and Victoria with those sparkly white teeth and her flushed face. "Sure, Millie. That''s so nice of you to do that." Replied Victoria who is now sporting a smile on her face. Well, that''s weird. Millie stood up all wobbly, "A toast to theter who stole everyone''s thunder tonight! A toast to Mrs. Volkov who is also Mrs. De Alba and Mrs. Bogdani! Basically, all the hot men we have all been dying to get, apparently, she already fucked!" The look of disbelief can now be seen on people''s faces. There are some gasps and chattering from outside the velvet rope and I can already see Axel, Niki, Alexei and Artan stand from their seats. One upside to this meltdown is that I can already pinpoint which wife is actually on my side and which are not. I can''t believe I am so focused on this game right now that not even the obvious slut-shaming fazed me. I have been a target, mostly by women who are-- one way or another--connected to the men that are surrounding me and this one right here is the friggin highlight. However, this did not do anything but bolster my resolve in finishing off my deal with Niki in ousting Victoria. She has at least four wives rooting for her. Four women who enjoyed Millie''s drunken episode. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. I have Niki''s ring which has two votes, as well as Axel''s and one from Artan, which means I also have five votes on my hand right now, I mean literally around my fingers. I am sure that I have the votes of the wives aligned to the Russian Mafia and that if I push for a vote I will have my way, but still, I''d rather not rely on the votes of the other wives. Just when I was so focused on my strategies, I notice something or rather someone climbing on my chair from the side. Oh my goodness, this kid. Jakob the Irish kid who apparently is the only heir to the Irish mob is here to save my night. He is holding a ring on his tiny little chubby hand looking so determined. "Marry me! Marry me!" He said at the top of his lungs. I thought I already put him to sleep back in the Ballroom, apparently, he''s still awake and kicking. "Marry me Arabelly. Will you marry me Arabelly?" Arabelly? I bit my lower lip to suppress a giggle. I did not have any choice but to fish him from the side of my chair and carry him in my arms. He looks sleepy and yet still determined to give me his ring. The Irish mob and Niki''s men are already on their way to go to me but I signaled them to stop. I offered my pinky finger to him so he can make his peace and finally go to sleep. The funny thing is, when the ring is already at the tip of my finger the kid drifted off to sleep slowly. His mouth partly opens as he rests his head on my chest slowly; it gained some sound of amusement from the people around. I focused my attention back on the other wives when the little boy was taken from me by one of the men from the Irish mob. I slowly slid the ring and then ced my hand on the edge of the table making sure that the wives get to see the colorful rings around my fingers. I looked at Victoria and her other friends as I begin the culling. Now it''s my turn. Chapter 25 Chapter 25 Belle''s POV Rise above the situation Belle. You are Volkov''s wife---the most powerful man in the Conglomerate. You havee this far. Don''t let this desperate inebriated woman ruin your night. "Millie, you look like you''re done for the night. I am sure your husband would be delighted to remove his disgraceful wife from the table." I said as calmly as I can even though my heart is already pounding inside my ribcage. One of their people is trying to talk her out of the Conglomerate wives table. She downed another ss of wine before leaving begrudgingly. Apparently, she''s widowed and is suffering from severe depression. Her stepson approached me to apologize immediately and to Niki who did not even let This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. the man exin to him. He did not even reach my husband because he was instantly blocked by Boris. It was made clear to them that my husband was not having it. I feel like because of my appearance in this meeting the Russian Mafia will have to deal with mob wars when we get home. I am a hundred percent sure that Niki and Alexei will not let this one slide. Victoria cleared her throat and then continued with a smile on her face like nothing happened. "Well, that was intense. Shall we continue?" She said casually. Wow this bitch. "No, we shall not." I answered, still calmly. "Excuse me?" She retorts back. "Did I stutter?" I eximed, looking at her straight in the eye. She scoffed like she can''t believe what I just said. The wives who are in cohort with her had the same expression on their faces. "Hand over the bell and leave the table at once Victoria." I said, still as calmly as I can. This time, people from outside the velvet rope are now chattering, most have the look of disbelief on their faces. For some twisted reason, I can sense fear in Victoria''s eyes. I feel like my dark soul is feasting over her reaction. I got you bitch. "Who died and made you Queen of the Conglomerate?" Victoria replied in an attempt to insult my boldness. If only she knows I am way beyond mad right now to even get insulted with such pettiness. I am now protecting my honor and my husbands'' honor. We are the Volkov family for a reason. It''s time to do my part as Niki and Alexei''s wife. "Fine then. Suit yourself Victoria." I signaled one of the servers and asked her to deliver a message to Boris of the Russian Mafia. When they got my message, Boris the not so gentle giant obliged without hesitation. He handed the server Niki''s phone, just like what I instructed and had my husband input the number of the person left in charge of the Russian Mafia back in New York. I then looked at Niki and Alexei who has now a ''daddies are proud of you little girl'' look on their faces. I just winked at them before focusing back my attention on Victoria. After just two rings the person answered. However, Victoria was about to speak again so I pointed my index finger towards her direction to shush her because I do not appreciate her interrupting me while I make a phone call to destroy her and her whole family to the ground. "This is Mrs. Volkov. Listen. Starting this very second, the German mob is considered an enemy of the Russian Mafia. All friendly rtions and business dealings with them, domestic or otherwise are dissolved. Encounter with them will now be considered hostile and as such proceed to exterminate without need of prior order from your Bosses. Alert all men after this call. Understand?" The look of shock is now stered on the faces of the people around including those outside the velvet rope. People from the German mafia are now on their phones, scampering to inform their people about the mob war. Victoria''s eyes widened while her minions jaws dropped in full and utter disbelief. "You can''t do that!" Eximed Victoria who still looks dumbstricken. "I just did." I replied, feeling this undeniable rush inside my ribcage. Yep. I told you I can make your life miserable in the Conglomerate. "The affairs of the Conglomerate wives are different from the affairs of the Bosses table! This is preposterous!" She continued, standing up from her seat smashing both of her hands on the table while looking at me angrily. "Next time Victoria, make sure youe prepared when you attack anyone from the Russian Mafia. You see, one thing I have learned from my husband is that Volkov always wins. And I am Mrs. Volkov. I will always win." I stood up from my seat and walked around the table. When I reached Victoria''s side of the table, I took the bell dramatically slow so that I can give her time to protest so I can take her down again. As expected, she held on to the bell tightly while looking at me intensely. She went too close to me for a stand off. "You will regret doing this to me ---you immoral prostitute! There are other forcesing for you and Volkov. I cannot wait for that day toe. You and your deranged family will fall to the ground." She said just loud enough for me to hear her. I just chuckled at her response. Who does she think she''s threatening right now? The rush inside my ribcage makes it so hard for me to suppress the evilugh that is threatening to burst out of my mouth. So this is what it feels like to be a Volkov and to have Niki''s name as my protection. I feel invincible! There''s no limit to what I can do. Wow! This is power and it''s all within my reach. I then forcefully grabbed the bell from her hand, "Do svid¨¢niya, bitch!" Victoria is now fuming in anger. Her chest is heaving and her eyes are intensely looking at me like she''s gonna pound at me anytime. I turn my back on her, sat back on my throne, and rang the bell thrice before speaking just to make sure I have everyone''s full and undivided attention. "Now, who''s next?" I looked at the other wives at the table whom I identified as Victoria''s allies. One by one, they folded like scared rats, trying so hard not to make eye contact with me. - All the big bosses of the different crime families of the conglomerate gathered in an emergency meeting due to the unexpected turn of events. And I mean, the one where I literally waged a mob war singlehandedly against the German mob. The one thing I first begged my husband not to do. Nevertheless, I do not regret it a single bit. I feel like, I had to do it, lest the Conglomerate sees a weak Volkov. And weak is definitely not the word to describe a Volkov. I''m sitting on the sofa by myself surrounded by our men including Boris and Dimitri. Alexei and Yuri are inside the meeting room with Niki. All the other members of the other crime families are now waiting for the Bosses toe out of the room. The party has already started but the tension and excitement can actually be felt lingering in the air. Amy and the people of the Albanian mob are just looking at me from a distance since Niki instructed Boris and Dimi not to let anyonee near me for my own protection. Strikes of pain hit my abdomen all of a sudden. I press my abdomen tightly just to ease the pain but it feels like it''s just worsening. My little ones, what''s happening? Don''t do this to mum, please. Daddies need mum right now. "Hey baby Madame, you okay?" Dimitri sat beside me noticing my predicament. "You need to rest baby. Sit still, the Boss should know about this." "No Dimi I''m okay!" I grabbed him by his arm because the man is so determined to go inside to tell Niki. "After this, I just need to rest. Niki and Alexei need me beside them right now." He looks me straight in the eye, looking all serious and worried. He then took a deep breath and sighed in defeat. "The Boss and the underboss have it all. They have found their ride or die." I palmed his right cheek and pushed it lightly which made him look to the side with a naughty smile on his face. "I understand why Yuri and the Albanian risked it all just to get the forbidden fruit. You are deadly yet worth every breath baby Madame." "Dimitri you are being weird." "Not as weird as the three of you though. You''re like three crazy people perfectly matched for each other." He said without mincing his words. "I''m telling Niki and Alexei." I retorted jokingly. "Hey! Not good."'' I just shook my head at him. "Seriously Madame, I''m telling the Boss about this if you don''t tell them yourself about what you''re feeling in there," Dimitri said while pointing at my abdomen. I was about to respond but then the door of the main room suddenly opened wide. The Boss and some other men of the German mob went out looking all serious. They walked past everyone without saying a single word. Their boss then signaled everyone from the German mob to go. Yup. That could not be good. Yikes Belle, what did you do? Next that went out of the room are my husbands, Axel De Alba and Artan. Axel gathered the attention of everyone and announced that the party for the night is going to resume. Everyone cheered and the band continued to y. Niki and Alexei went past the people around them and went directly beside me, sandwiching me in between them. I held on to Alexei''s hand who is now whispering something in Dimitri''s ear. His fingers intertwined with mine even though his attention is somewhere else. I know he''s still upset with me. Getting jealous of Axel ispletely ridiculous. This man just doesn''t know how much I love him. Chapter 26 Chapter 26 Belle''s POV Liquor is now being poured into Niki''s ss. He is talking to Boris in Russian, giving him some kind of instruction I could not understand. I can sense that they are now preparing for the mob war. All this whispering makes me cringe. My husbands are now in war mode all because their wife got them into this mess in the first ce. When he was done talking to Boris, my husband took a sip from his ss, ced it on the table beside him and then focused his attention on me. "Niki." He did not let me continue. His lipsnded on mine while my cheeks arepletely enveloped by his strong and veiny hands. His tongue forced entrance inside my mouth causing an electric current to run up my spine. His kiss became deeper and more domineering by the second and to be quite honest, I don''t want him to stop. His lips connected to mine in perfect sync I know my face is already flushed in embarrassment. We are not necessarily alone and I''m pretty sure some people are watching. Slowly, he disconnected his lips from mine. "Woman, you excite me to no end." "Uhm Niki, just to remind you-- I just waged a war against the German mob. Why are we still here?" "We are always at war with somebody. Don''t worry about it. I got this." "But Niki..." "Shh...You made me really proud tonight baby. See?" He said while taking my other hand and putting it on top of his crotch. I felt his full hard-on and indeed if being proud is equivalent to being horny in my husband''s vocabry, he really is proud. I mean his d*ck is so angry it is already creasing on his Armani. I immediately remove my hand from his manhood and instantly smack him on his shoulder. My goodness, this man! "Niki, there are people and kids around." Of course, I know he doesn''t care. Still, I needed to remind him that we are in public. I asked him about their emergency meeting. Niki told me that the Conglomerate decided that the war will be contained as between the Russian Mafia and German Mob only. And that whoever meddles will be dealt with by the Conglomerate as a whole. No wonder the German mob boss was too serious when they went out of the meeting. The mob is Axel de Alba''s ally but he chose not to put his business in between warring crime families. And I admire him for that. This could have been his chance to get back at the Russian Mafia since rumor has it that he is still convinced that the death of his father was because of the Russian Mafia. The Bosses of the conglomerate tried to diffuse the situation but my husband did not want to hear them. Knowing Niki too well, he will never back down from a fight, especially when it''s about me or anyone from the Mafia. And he is the type who makes sure that he wins. I do not doubt him a single bit. I know that the Russian mafia ispletely capable of winning the war and continue to be at war with the mob even without the help of anyone. The reason why one of the people from the German Mob was so eager to talk to Niki in the hopes of salvaging the situation. But it was a lost cause. Everyone in the mafia knows that. "So what now." I asked because it seems that they don''t look bothered at all. Niki nods, pointing towards his brother who is now being stubborn drinking whilst still holding hands with me. He''s mad but still wants to hold hands. My goodness, this man. I''m thinking of the one thing that will ease him down and ultimately stop him from being insecure about our rtionship. If we do this, there''s no reason for him to think that someone will take me from him and his brother. I whispered something to Niki who was taken by surprise. His eyebrows are wrinkled while looking at me as if he wants to confirm what I just said. "Really?" He asked. "Yes Niki. Only with your blessing of course." I replied. "We have nned about it but why wait if we can do it now right? Alright. I''ll take care of it." He replied. I wrap my arm around Niki''s back and buried my face on his chest. For some reason I found myself tearing up. "I love you Niki." "I love you too baby. Hey don''t cry. Shhh. It''s going to be alright. I want this to happen. This is what I want." "What happened? Who the fuck made her cry? Tell me!" Alexei buts in. I wiped the tears from before facing the other love of my life. "Alexei, let''s talk somewhere private?" He downed his liquor and slowly scooped the small of my back looking worried and confused as well. He and Niki talked in Russian for a few seconds before taking me outside the garden of the old castle. It''s a bit chilly outside and so my ever sweet Alexei covered his jacket around my shoulders. We sat by the fountain and enjoyed the serene sound of the beautiful garden. I scooted over to his side so that there''s not an inch of gap between us. I then brush my palm on his thin beard while the man is trying his best not to look me in the eye. My goodness, why does he looks extra handsome when he''s mad? "What do I have to do for you to forgive me?" I asked him while my other hand is brushing his veiny arm. "I don''t have to tell you anything. If you want De Alba to be your lover who am I to stop you? You already have his ring, what''s stopping you from leaving me to live with him here?" He replied like he is so convinced that I can actually do what he''s saying. My god. Where is this evening from? My patience is thinning but I still want to understand him because I know that a jealous man doesn''t think straight. Just like his brother who loses himself when he is ovee by jealousy. I removed Axel De Alba''s ring from my finger and ced it inside his jacket pocket. "There, no De Alba ring anymore." "He kissed your head in front of everyone and I saw it myself. You did not even object." He continued. "I did not know that he was gonna kiss me! Clearly, that man is quite crazy." I retorted. "But you like crazy! You''re attracted to crazy! Dammit, you''re even married to crazy!" Alexei eximed. "Hey! What the fuck!? I heard that." Inserted the voice of the devil himself, Niki. Apparently, he''s just right around the corner, listening and being a creep. He''s with Dimi, Yuri, and Boris who are at the dimmer part of the garden. The three can be heard stifling a snort. "No offense brother." Alexei said. "De Alba kissed you?" Niki asked, appearing from the dark slowly as he walks using his cane. Well look at that, he is mad not because his brother called him crazy but because he heard that Axel kissed me. My goodness Niki. "Niki baby. Some more privacy please?" I pleaded. The man halted realizing his rude interruption. He then sat on the bench right next to mine and Alexei''s. Behaving himself for a few seconds but then he wasn''t able to contain it and dialed his phone to call someone. "De Alba, you are a piece of shit! I''m in your garden. Where the fuck are you? What kind of hosting is this?" I just ignored my husband and focused my attention back on the other love of my life. "There is no reason for you to be jealous of Axel De Alba. I am in love with you and nothing can ever change that. I will prove that to you tonight." "Niki, are we good?" I asked my husband who is now sitting on his side looking at his brother like a lunatic. He has a smile on his face like he is up to no good. My heart is fluttering because I can see that he is genuinely happy. Happy for Alexei. His confidant. His best friend. His brother. Alexei has now a puzzled look on his face. In fact, I think he''s close to getting pissed. "Niki---" I called out to get his attention. He snapped out of his naughtiness when he realized that I''m just waiting for his signal. "Oh yes, sorry baby, we''re good. Let''s go brother." "What is happening?" Asked Alexei. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Niki just tapped his brother''s shoulder and hugged him tightly which made Alexei even more suspicious. ~ Amy and Matushka were able to find a veil that perfectly suits and matches my gown. The front side reaches my waist while the back crawls all over the ground. It is being blown by the wind gently as I walk slowly down the dock where small torches are lined up on the sides. The moonlight and the stars are shining down as if they are one with us. Small candles inside ball-shaped sses are floating in the water around the dock illuminating the surrounding darkness. Our flower girl Aria is carefully strewing white rose petals on the dock as she walks like the good little girl that she is. I promise myself not to tear up no matter what but then the moment I saw Alexei patiently waiting for me-- I choked up. Niki tapped and squeezed his brother''s shoulder as the man adjusts his tie while looking in my direction. After so many challenges and heartaches that we have been through that almost tore us apart, this is finally happening. I am finally getting married to Alexei Viktor Volkov. Chapter 27 Chapter 27 Belle''s POV Small white flowers and white rose petals are falling down like snow from the helicopters hovering in the night sky. A violin and a piano are ying in the background as the wind gently kisses my veil. The small candles inside small jars float calmly on the water while some are on the beach as if reflecting the stars in the night sky. The lighthouse and the pretty little lights surrounding the castle overlooking the whole ind added to the charm of this beautiful night. The night that I am marrying Alexei. My Alexei Viktor Volkov. Aria is doing a great job as my flower girl. She is such a sweetheart and behaves like a little angel. She''s tossing the petals with a pretty smile on her face while looking at her daddy. Our ring bearer was supposed to be Jakoby Quinn, the boy licker. However, he attempted to throw our rings into the water as he was having a fit. And so the next best option for our ring bearer was our big man, Boris. I just giggle inside. My pee buddy is our ring bearer. Amy is my maid of honor and Niki is Alexei''s best man. Axel de Alba will be officiating our wedding. I''m not even gonna attempt to think about the weirdness of the situation. What''s important is that I''m going to marry the love of my life tonight. I have noticed that Alexei has been adjusting his tie for the past several seconds looking all serious. His brother on the other hand has a small smile stered on his face whilst holding his cane, looking all too dapper and handsome. I can sense that Niki is actually happy for his brother and I could never be more thankful. What Niki, Alexei, and I share is out of the ordinary. The three of us are in a rtionship that most people would see as not normal. To some, it may be ludicrous but to me, this is my normal. Love is beyond any definition or standard and the three of us have proven that time and again. Niki, Alexei, and I click. Like the perfect click. Our rtionship works just like any other romantic rtionship, only that there are three people in our equation. I took a deep breath as I am a few steps away from Niki and Alexei. I am starting to get emotional -- pregnant hormones please -- and so I tried topose myself together and halted for a few seconds. For a split second there, I saw the rm on Alexei and Niki''s faces. And I think I know what exactly they are thinking. My goodness. They just don''t know how much I want this marriage to happen. I just don''t want my tears to smudge my makeup so I don''t look like a roon in our wedding pictures. And so I continued walking with a smile on my face. "Hey, I made it." I said yfully when I finally reached Niki and Alexei. "Hi." Said Alexei. "Hi." I replied. "Took you a while." He continued. "Sorry, had to fart." I replied with just enough volume that only he and his brother can hear. Alexei now has a full-blown smile on his face. Niki on the other hand shook his head and slowly took a hanky from his jacket pocket to cover his nose teasingly. I just smack him lightly on his chest. "Shall we?" Alexei asked while offering his hand for me to hold. We then faced Axel De Alba for the ceremony to begin. "Good eveningdies and gentlemen. We are here to witness the union of Mary Arabe and Alexei Viktor. Man and woman, have youe here to enter into marriage freely and without coercion?" Axel cleared his throat momentarily and then continued. "Especially you, Belle? Did you walk down here in your own volition?" My goodness, this man. Alexei is now looking at Axel intently and I know that the man did not get Axel''s joke. I just bit my lower lip as the tension starts to rise. "I called the shots for this wedding. So yes, I am here in my own volition." I replied as a matter of factly. I can hear some giggling in the background and I can see that Alexei loosened up a little bit. Now if only Axel could just stop with his antics and do his job. "Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?" "I am." Alexei and I answered in unison. "You may now dere your personal intentions-- the groom first." "I, Alexei Viktor Volkov, take you, Mary Arabe to be mywful wife. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honor you all the days of my life. I will protect you and take care of you until myst breath. What''s mine is now yours, forever and ever." My damn tears are threatening to fall again. I love him. I love this man to the death. "I, Mary Arabe, take you, Alexei Viktor Volkov to be my husband. I promise to be faithful to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to serve and obey you at all times, to treat you with love and respect, forever and ever." Alexei gently touches my face from behind my veil with his palm. He brushes my skin with his thumb while looking at me intently as I finish speaking my vows. I slowly reached for him from behind my veil and kisses the back of his veiny hand. Axel De Alba called on our ring bearer to bring the rings to us. Another giggle emanated from our very small audience who are actually just Matushka, Artan, Aria, Amy, Yuri, Dimitri and Niki and our wolves, Petrushka and Valkyre. Boris looked so shy and embarrassed; I had to assure him that I do appreciate what he did. I brush his arm gently while mouthing ''thank you''. He smiled back which lightened the mood even more. "Princess Belle, take this ring as a sign of my evesting love, lust, worship, fidelity, and devotion." Said Alexei as he slid the ring on my finger. He said each word with such emphasis; even Axel sported a smile on his face upon hearing them. "Alexei Viktor Volkov, take this ring as a sign of my undying love and submission to you. Never, ever take this off?" I asked as I slide the ring around his ring finger. "Never ever." He replied. "Well, by the power vested in me by this ind, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride." Said Axel De Alba, raising both his hands as he now officially deres Alexei and me as husband and wife. This signaled the beginning of the fireworks from the boat not too far from the shore and the cheers from our witnesses. Alexei slowly uncovered my veil. He then gently trails his hands on my jawline to kiss me on my lips for our very first kiss as Mr. and Mrs. Volkov. Me, twice over. --- "What do you mean no sex?" I asked just to make sure I heard Alexei right. He is carrying me in his arms as we approach a private jumbo jet. Apparently, we are heading home now, right after we said I do. I got easily distracted because I noticed that this ne doesn''t look like the usual private jet we use when we travel. In fact, I think this one is bigger and boy does it sparkle as light reflects on it. And then there it is the monogram V right next to the main entrance of the ne. My goodness. Again, exactly how rich are these two? "Dimitri told me that you were not feeling well. You were seen holding on to your abdomen during the meeting. We have called your doctor and she said that stress is a factor. I do not want to risk it. It''s you and the future of the Russian Mafia we are talking about so our honeymoon is suspended indefinitely until I get a go signal from the doctor." He replied without a hint of humor in his voice. "But daddy..." I said teasing him. "Wife please, no amount of twinkling eyes can change my mind right now." He ces me gently in the middle seat where there is white fur on the backrest. He then sat right next to me on my right. I wasn''t able to say a single word as my eyes marvel at how luxurious the interior of the ne looks like. The main materials are overly shiny wood with gold and dark green linings, even the napkins have gold monogram V etched on them -- a very Volkov signature design. White flowers ced in beautiful vases on top of every table, veryfortable seats even Boris will have plenty of space to go by and a crew of blonde flight attendants and pilots with very thick Russian ents. I am impressed. A drink was poured on Alexei''s ss while what''s served to me were a ss of sparkling water, fruits and bread in a basket. Yikes, boring. Where are my hamburger and chips at? I called the attention of the flight attendant to ask for some proper food but then Alexei inserted himself as if reading my mind. "No junk food for you princess." My mouth parted in disbelief. Who is this man? I married a stranger. You are not my Alexei! "But---" I was about to protest but then he signaled the flight attendant to leave and then taps hisp for me to sit. I obliged since I remember saying in my vow that I will submit to him. I reckon, this too early for a marital discord over food. I sat awkwardly facing my back against his face. I adjusted a few more times, bouncing on hisp to find a morefortable position. I can hear Alexei make some weird noises and several grunts. I myself found it funny. And when I wasfortable enough, I sat still in awkwardness. There is a moment of silence as I feel my face heat up in embarrassment. I then heard Alexei chuckle from the back, "You know, all I have to do is unzip my pants and we are good to go." I immediately sat on my side and smack him on his chest. "Alexei! You said no sex!" Heughed at me and then rains kisses on my arms and side and breasts while a smile is permanently stered on his face. Alexei then signaled something to one of the attendants and for some reason, it looks like she understood immediately. And then there is darkness and streaks of green and purple strobe lights followed. When a song started to y, all I can see on the walls are just tiny sparkling lights like diamonds. It feels like we are in the middle of a ballroom. Alexei offered his hand for us to dance. He gently ced both my arms around his neck and wraps his arm around the small of my back. He pulls me to his body as he slowly sways from side to side. Good heavens. What did I ever do to deserve this man? "Do you like it?" He asks so gently, his voice low and hoarse. "Yes, it''s beautiful Alexei." I actually feel like I''m in high school--in prom. Only this time, I get to dance with a man that I am in love with. And he is now my husband. He holds me with both of his hands just below my ears and then kisses me on my lips gently. Slow and sensual at first, but then it quickly turned to deep and passionate kisses. The heat that ising out of our mouths is too intense, I feel like running out of breath. So much for not having sex. "Alexei, I want you inside me." His hands fell to my arms and squeeze me tightly. He looked down, let out a grunt as if having an internal struggle. "It''s okay. You will not hurt me Alexei." I said, guiding his hand and cing it on my breasts. "Touch me." I continued. I want him I want him bad. He carries me in his arms and towards the back where there is a huge room. Inside is a king-size bed and a luxuriously designed wood and gold entuated bedroom. He turned his back on me and walks next to the bed. He took his jacket off like he is taking his time and brushes his shiny hair with his palm. He then went to my back, kissing my shoulders while unbuttoning my dress. "I''m going to be as gentle as I can be. Lie in bed and let me see your body." I did what was told but not without a little embarrassment. I can feel my face heat up and I know that I am slowly turning crimson. He scanned my naked body from my face down to my toes. He slowly spread my one leg to the side so he will have an unimpeded view of mydy part. He then lets out a devilish smirk, looking all satisfied. He then took his shirt off it made me involuntarily bite my lower lip. Behold is a species of a man close to perfection. His core curled a little bit showing his six-pack as he removes his shirt offpletely. He then unzips his pants andpletely removes them leaving only his boxers on. My eyes instantly marveled at how perfectly sculpted this man is. His chiseled arms and chest are very prominent. And Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. the tattoos covering the whole of his sleeve and his shoulders added to his maic presence a hundred times over. Thest one to go is his boxers. His impressive manhood is standing high and mighty as hepletely gets naked. Even though he is not saying a single word, I know he is very much ready for the deed. Chapter 28 Chapter 28 Belle''s POV After our first sexual intercourse as husband and wife, we were like inseparable lovebirds. Alexei wouldn''t even let me leave his side while we wait for his brother to arrive. We made love but it was not the usual that would leave me all bruised after. He was very gentle and sensual. It''s like our bodies moved in perfect sync and we both had mind-blowing orgasms after. It was tantric. It was pure love and ecstasy. While snuggled up with each other in one of the couches, I noticed that the flight attendants huddle and fixed themselves once again, lining up as if waiting for another guest toe. I think I know who is the tarmac. The first one toe out of the limo is Axel De Alba and then my husband. They talked for a while before Niki slowly walks his way up to our jet. I know it will be hard for him to climb up the stairs so I asked Alexei if we both could help Niki. I know for a fact that his brother is very stubborn especially when people try to offer him help. He just would not budge. Alexei insists that I stay on the ne as he helps his brother walk up the stairs. So I just stood here feeling all the guilt of shooting my husband, the very reason why he is temporarily a disabled Volkov. Niki''s other arm is leaning against his brother while holding his cane in his other hand. Boris, Yuri, and Dimitri are all walking behind the brothers like it''s a friggin'' procession. I have noticed that Axel De Alba hasn''t got into his limousine yet and I think he''s looking in my direction. If I really think about it, he''s not that bad. Just pure evil maybe, same as my husband but somewhere in there, I know there''s a soft side. He waved at me with a smile on his face and so I waved back at him. I haven''t thanked him yet for officiating and preparing for my wedding with Alexei. He appears to be holding out a ck card as if showing it to me. It was then that I remember the ck calling card he gave me when he delivered food and pretended to be Sebastian the food delivery guy when in fact he''s Sebastian Axel De Alba, the head of the Cabana Cartel, the most dangerous criminal organization in Latin America. - Niki and Alexei talking in Russian while Belle is sitting right across Boris on the other side of the aisle. She''s looking at him intently as the big man eats a hamburger which is supposed to be hers. It was Niki who bought Colombian Mcdonald''s for Belle on his way to the airport. The Russian Mafia Boss was not yet made aware of the OBGYN''s advice against junk food for Belle. Niki: (Snickers) Look at her. Alexei: You should have seen her face when I told her she should eat fruits instead. Her eyes were fucking twitching in annoyance. Niki: Can''t me the fucking Colombian and Albanian if they want her. Alexei: Speaking of the Colombian. Does he have information about the Yvanislov''s? Niki: He will be in New York this week. We will confirm information about the old man Yvanislov being in government custody seeking refuge with the Feds in exchange for insider information about the Russian Mafia. Alexei: We have a mob war waiting for us at home and the feds might be tailing our business as we speak. If it''s just me and you, I would not mind but we have someone to protect. She''s going to be the number one target, brother. Niki: We do what we always do best. Eliminate anyone who gets in our way. Protect the family. (Looks at Belle) She''s our priority. Alexei: Yuri, are contingency ns alreadyid out? Yuri: I handled it. The elders have been alerted. New York is fully covered. Also, Vasily and Ivan are back in the mansion. They have been briefed. Dimitri: You sure about Ivan and Vasily? You know, considering... Alexei: They have learned their lesson. Is that right Yuri? You know, considering... Dimitri: (Scoffs and smiles while looking at Yuri teasingly) I feel like a fucking saint. Damn, am I the only one who has not touched the forbidden fruit? Yuri, Alexei and Niki all have small smiles stered on their faces finding the humor lighthearted yet very true. They shook their heads, drank their Vodka as all have one thing in mind. Dimitri: Shit! Of course! (As if realizing something) Boris! The fucking giant hasn''t touched the forbidden fruit! They all looked at Boris in unison. The big man ced a piece of French fries in between two napkins and the half part of the hamburger and then slides it towards his Madame as if handing contraband. - Belle''s POV I am slowly showing. I can already notice my bump. Although I think if other people look at me they would just assume that this is just my belly fat showing. Regardless, I am still beautiful said Niki and Alexei. I''m in front of the mirror as big as our wall while I put on my clothes. My husbands are waiting for me for breakfast. Since arrivingst night, I have noticed that security has been heightened in the mansion. Our security details have tripled and Niki said that I will have two more bodyguardsing. It must be because of the Mob war going on between us and the Germans, courtesy of yours truly. Still I would not back down from it. I am wearing casual high waist ck shorts and a white off-shoulder crop top. I do not have ns of going out today. I just want to spend the rest of the day in the mansion to roam around. I want to see every corner of this huge property that we call home. "Good morning loves!" I said with glee as I approach the breakfast table in the garden just outside the mansion. I then kiss Niki and Alexei on their lips one by one and then sat right in the middle of the two. Niki has ck-framed eyesses on while reading the newspaper-- such an old school kind of man by the way. Alexei is wearing ck sunsses looking as gorgeous as his brother, only that he''s the kind that smiles a little bit more. Both equally hot and dangerous. The best part is, I am married to them both. Niki instantly puts down the newspaper and scooped a considerable amount of rice and veggies on my te while his brother took a knife and sliced the apple in four parts and ced it on my te as well. "Thank you but, I''m just pregnant. I am not sick." "Eat your breakfast. End of." Niki said dismissively. I try so hard not to roll back my eyes. You are a dick Niki. End of. While my good morning is being tested by my husband, I noticed a brte woman sitting right next to Yuri. She is actually beautiful--the innocent kind of beautiful. They are talking and enjoying each other''s Wow. That was fast. So Yuri has a girlfriend now? I thought they could not have rtionships? What is going on? I pulled the other side of the newspaper Niki''s holding and then inserted my head so that others could not see me gossip. "Who is that woman kissing Yuri?" I whisper talk. "His fiance'' I guess." Niki replied with a low voice while still reading. "So they are allowed to be in rtionships and marry now? Is that it?" Somehow I feel happy for these men. Finally, they will be able to live like normal people. Since the beginning, I wasn''t a big fan of the rule that Papa Vyachev imposed upon the boys in terms of not having rtionships. If this is now the case, I think this is a wee development. "Only Yuri. We had a deal." He replied straightforwardly. "What deal?" I asked, still whisper talking. "I can''t tell you. It was a gentleman''s agreement." He retorted. I did not insist further and decided to let it go. I just continued cing blueberry jam on top of Alexei''s pancakes trying my best not to look at the anomalous rtionship sitting across the table. - Third persons POV Belle is swimming with the wolves in the pool. Niki made sure it was specially made for her height so that she doesn''t drown since she doesn''t know how to swim. It is one of several pools installed in the Volkov estate. Friend: That''s Mrs. Volkov? The woman in the paintings and pictures all over the mansion? The wife of the Big Boss and the Underboss? I have never seen her this close. Taty: Yes, that''s her. The Bosses are very protective of her. She''s always surrounded by bodyguards. She even has a bodyguard when she goes to the bathroom. No one can touch or talk to her except for those trusted by her and the Big Boss. I think it''s too much. She''s like in a gold and marble prison. Friend: I wouldn''t mind if I were her. She has everything she wants. She has two husbands who take care of her. And I have heard rumors about a secret room in the mansion where she keeps all the gifts from Volkov like pieces of jewelry and shoes and beautiful designer clothes, shoes and bags. Have you seen it yet Taty? Taty: No. I can''t just go around the mansion freely. I''ve been trying to befriend her but she doesn''t seem to care about me. And she doesn''t talk much. She has her own world. Friend: You''ve been here a few days. You''ll find your way with her. Taty: I don''t know if I still have time to do that. Yuri and I are leaving the mansion soon. Friend: What? When is that? But I still like visiting you here! This ce is so posh and rich! Don''t you like it here? Taty: It''s not like I get to decide. Once we get engaged, my life here in the Volkov mansion is over even before it begins. Friend: So I have heard that the men in the mansion aren''t supposed to get married. And if they do insist, they are either dead or out, not only in the mansion but also out of the Mafia. You''re back to the pole again. Taty: (Looks at her friend sternly) Yuri has his own money. All the men in this mansion are filthy rich! Friend: Sorry. I''m just saying, people in Kovrov think that you''ve made it big now because you''re connected to Yuri, the third man in line in the Mafia. And he is so hot like, is he even human? He''s like a man who only exists in every woman''s imagination. And he has quite the bad boy reputation too. Taty: Yeah. He is but he''s not the Big Boss and the Underboss. (Bites her lip) Friend: Oh my god Tatyana! The Volkov brothers seriously? You can''t have them! They are our Bosses. The Bosses of the Russian Mafia. I bet they won''t even notice you even when you cartwheel in front of them. Taty: Not if I cartwheel naked in front of them. (Both giggles) Friend: Ugh, I wish I was Madame Volkov! Can we be friends with her? I love her! Everyone in Kovrov loves her except for some envious bitches from Zora who want the Boss and the Underboss to themselves like they think they even have an ounce of chance. Taty: I had a chance with Alexei. Friend: Right. He was so drunk you and the other girls basically threw yourselves at him and yet you were left to dry because he started choking you like for realz choked you leaving you with blood shut eyes and swollen throat. Have you thanked Dimitri for saving your asses that night by the way? You know that Alexei is a sadist freak. Taty: He was calling her name that night. I have heard that time he and Madame Volkov had a fight. Friend: Yep. You don''t have a chance even if you chase after him Taty. So drop it. Taty: There''s another Volkov. Friend: The Big Boss? ughs nervously) If Alexei is sadist, his brother, the blood of Vyachev is satan! I am afraid of him, everyone in the Mafia is afraid of him, and so should you! No matter how attractive the Boss is, don''t be flirting with death girl. Taty: Madame Volkov tamed them. What does she have that I don''t have? Friend: Hmm, lemme see. She''s the wife and she''s pregnant with THE VOLKOV. You my dear are a med school drop-out and a stripper at Zora. You are both beautiful let''s be clear about that but Madame Volkov is like Mama Mary, you just want to kneel in front of her and pray. There''s like light years difference between you and her. Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org. Taty: Thanks for the words of encouragement. Friend: Just drop your obsession with the brothers. You will get in big trouble with Madame Volkov and no one will ever help you. Not even your friends in the Mafia! We all know she ordered the mob war with the Germans. If she can do that to a mob imagine what she will do to you if she finds out about your years of obsession with the Volkov brothers. And remember, you are here because Yuri chose you to be with him or whatever and not to flirt with satan and the sadist. Taty: Yuri doesn''t even like me. I think he''s in love with someone else. Friend: Really? Taty: Yes. The only time he pays attention to me is when we are with the Boss and other people in the mansion. But when it''s just the two of us, he would not even touch or look at me. Friend: Aww Taty. You''re starting to like Yuri? I am so sorry. Chapter 29 Chapter 29 Ivan and Vasily''s POV (Speaking in Russian) Ivan: Fuck. This is going to be one hell of a first day. (He looks at Belle who just took off her shirt revealing her ck string bathing suit. The water from the small fountain showers surrounding the pool is now cascading down her face and body. Her skin glistens as the soft ray of sunshine embraces her naked curves.) Vasily: (looks at Belle in silence) Ivan: I don''t want to fuck with the Boss again bro. Just look away. Vasily: Our job is to look after her. How is ''not looking at her'' even possible? Ivan: Well, just look. Don''t touch. Do not ever touch like what you didst time, you hear me? Even if she touches you first, do not engage bro. I''m going to fucking kill you myself, I swear to my momma''s grave. - Belle''s POV The ob-gyn came to our house for my pre-natal check-up. She told me what Alexei has been telling me on our way back to New York. Refrain from eating junk food. I can move around but not stressful physical activities to avoid fatigue. And so I am left in the house while my husbands are facing the consequences of my actions. Amy told me that there had been several casualties from the German Mob but the Conglomerate was quick to clean up the mess as nothing happened. This must be the reason why Niki said that Axel De Alba is in New York. It could be about making sure that the mob war does not spill over and involve the authorities. Everyone in the Russian Mafia is on high alert including our international connections, particrly in Russia where Andrey, Yuri''s brother is taking charge. Kovrov, the Russian town here in New York is preparing for retaliation from the German Mob. Oh my goodness what have I actually done? Ivan and Vasily''s family members are all in Kovrov and yet they are here, protecting the very reason why their families are in danger. I put my shirt back on and approached the two. I have noticed that sinceing back here, these two have never been the same. I feel like they are avoiding having any conversation with me. They are both wearing leather jackets and their usual jeans and a white tee. I pulled a chair right in the middle and signaled them toe in front of me. I stepped on the chair so I can reach their shoulders and wrapped my arms around their necks to hug the two. "I miss you I.V. Where have you been?" They just stood like a statue and did not answer me, but I continued anyway. I actually miss them both. And I feel so guilty for putting their families in harm''s way because of my fight with Victoria. "I am so sorry I.V. I''m sorry for putting your families at Kovrov in danger." They stood silently as they try not to look me in the eye. I just gave them a kiss on their cheeks one by one and just let them go. The weather has suddenly be gloomy so I decided to go back inside the mansion and wait for my husbands toe home. There''s this unsettling feeling lingering in my heart so I called them asking them toe home. They are now on their way back and so I made sure that dinner is ready. As per usual the chef from Dil¨¦ who is now our full-time chef in the mansion did his wonders. "Hi." Said a female voice. "Madame Volkov, my name is- " "Tatyana, I know." I interrupted her. Of course, I know who she is. She''s Yuri''s apparent fianc¨¦'' and the Tatyana who once called Alexei daddy over the phone when my husband and I broke up. I figured this one out after some inquires with the people in the mansion. "Yes. I am so sorry I have not introduced myself the first time. I was---" This time her Russian ent became very obvious. "You were busy making out with Yuri in front of all of us." I interrupted her once again. If not for Yuri, I would not have agreed for her to be here in the first ce. She''s from Zora and god knows how many times this woman has bed Niki and Alexei or perhaps all the men here in the mansion. I mean, heck she had my husband''s number for goodness sakes! To my utter surprise, she sat down right across me, taking over Alexei''s seat at the dinner table. She looks at me with a smile on her face. "I''m sorry Madame Volkov but whether you like it or not, Yuri and I are getting married. We have the Boss'' blessing." Oh my goodness. Can you believe this woman? "Tatyana lest you are forgetting that you are in MY house and you are sitting on MY husband''s seat?" She stood up from the seat whilst looking me straight in the eye. It''s a good thing that the men of the mansion have already arrived. She went from being all feisty to a sweet innocent girl all of a sudden and ran towards Yuri. She jumped on Yuri and wrapped her legs around him like a tarant. I can''t help but roll my eyes. Ugh. I want to vomit. This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. But whatever, if Yuri is happy with her I will not be the one to stop them. I am all for Yuri''s happiness. "Hey, wifey." Says Alexei. He envelopes me with his arms tightly then kisses me on my lips. The warmth from his embrace and his kiss make me feel like I am floating in the air. "How''s your day Alexei? Where''s your brother?" "He''s on his way home. He had separate engagement today." He replied whilst raining kisses on my face. "How about Ratiana''s kisses? I think she misses her daddy Alexei." I said whispering teasingly. "Princess." "Uh huh. I did my research. Don''t even try to deny it." I retorted. Alexei called Yuri''s attention and spoke Russian to him. Yuri just nods and exited the dining hall along with Tatyana and the other boys who are with them when they arrived. Alexei then pulled my chair for me to sit and ced my napkin on myp just like a gentlemen that he is. He then went to his seat and called on the servers to serve our dinner. "Having dinner without me? I am hurt." It''s Niki along with Boris and Dimitri and the other men. Niki just signaled something to all of them and then they are gone. He then sat on his throne as the king that he is, unbuttoned his jacket, and tilted his head to the side like inspecting my whole body. "What was that about?" I asked all puzzled. He then took my hand, smells and kisses it like a maniac. "The light tan looks good on you and you smell like -----." He halted for a second as if thinking and then continued, "-----home. My home." My face heats up as I did not know how to react to this man''s sweetness. How could this man be the feared leader of the Russian Mafia, a violent criminal organization, and be this soft and sweet towards his wife? I took his hand and held it with both my palms, kissed his huge dark green Volkov ring and his wedding band. The servers are already cing our food on the table and so we started to eat in peace, just the three of us surrounded by candles and the sparkling chandelier on top. "Niki, is it true that you already gave Yuri and Tatyana your blessing to marry?" I asked just to confirm what she said to me a while ago. "Yes, I did. Yuri mentioned it to you?" He answered while slicing his food. "No, Tatyana did." I replied. "You''ve been talking?" Alexei inserted. "Not really. Have they set their wedding day?" "Baby, do not concern yourself with their wedding. Yuri would be expelled from the Mafia before that happens anyway." Niki answered. Yuri will be expelled from the Mafia? I recall Niki telling me about their gentleman''s agreement. Could this be it? Yuri can actually get married but the consequence is that he gets expelled? But the Mafia is Yuri''s life. How could he be made to choose between love and the Mafia? "Yuri is part of our family Niki. Is there a way that he doesn''t get expelled whilst being married at the same time?" I asked and I wasn''t able to hide my frustration with Yuri''s current situation. "In the mafia, we abide by the rules. If we break our own rules, it will send a wrong message to our people and the whole organization." Alexei answered and then wipes his mouth with the napkin. Ipletely understand Alexei''s insistence in following the rules. The Russian Mafia is where it is now because of Niki and Alexei''s effective control and leadership of the Mafia. I am not about to question that. ---- I decided to talk to Yuri about what has been bothering me after my and my husband''s conversation. I just want to hear it from him. I messaged Yuri that I''m waiting for him in the garden so we can talk privately. The other boys, Niki and Alexei are now inside the mansion having a few drinks. I''m brushing my arms with my palms as I did not realize that it''s going to be this chilly tonight. Not for long though, a warm jacket is slowly being wrapped around my shoulders. It''s Yuri making sure that I am warm enough and well. He sat beside me and just remained silent. "Are you getting married to Tatyana?" I asked. Silence. "How long have you been in a rtionship with her?" Silence. "If you and she have been in a rtionship long enough, why did you even risk your life telling me that you love me? It just doesn''t make sense Yuri." "I am leaving the mansion, tomorrow Madame." He finally answered but it was the answer that I did not want to hear. I feel like my heart has been stabbed. I can''t believe that this actually hurts. Chapter 30 Chapter 30 Belle''s POV "Yuri" I called out his name as he was about to go back inside the mansion. He halted, still facing his back on me, and waited for me to speak. Don''t go. I don''t want you to go. "Your jacket" I continued. He looked over his shoulder and connected his gaze on me. I thought he was going to say something but then he just reached for his jacket and gently took it from my hand. Yuri and I went back inside the mansion without resolving anything. I was so tempted to ask him about Tatyana and their supposed marriage which is ultimately the reason why he''s leaving the mansion. At least that''s what I think is the real reason why. I wanted to ask since when did he and that woman fell in love and where does his confession of love towards mee into the picture. I mean, was he in a rtionship with Tatyana the whole time he was telling me that he loves me? Why go through hell facing Niki and Alexei''s wrath when he was in a rtionship and set to marry that woman anyway? It just doesn''t make sense. Regardless, the fact remains that he is leaving the mansion and I don''t think there''s anything I can do to change that. I sat in the middle of Niki and Alexei while Yuri sat beside Tatyana. Dimitri is ying the guitar while the other men are drinking and doing their own thing. You are my sunshine, my only sunshine You make me happy when skies are grey You''ll never know, dear, how much I love you Please don''t take my sunshine away (Looks at Belle) You told me once dear you really loved me that no one else coulde between but now you''ve left me and love another (Looks at Yuri) you have shattered all my dreams. I could not stand the tension lingering in the air. Aside from Yuri and I, Dimitri is also aware that I am Yuri''s sunshine. Even Tatyana looked at me and Yuri back and forth like figuring something out. Yikes. That could not be good. --- I''m sitting on the countertop in our bathroom. Niki is taking a shower inside the ss booth big enough to be a room in itself while his brother is standing by the counter tapping cologne on his neck and face. Alexei is wearing cream-colored cotton pants, half-naked in all his godly glory. The whole bathroom smells so good! The icy and woody fresh scent of a friggin Volkov man. Ugh. Niki must have noticed that I''m here so he switched the smart setting of the ss booth to see through so that I can see him inside. This is one of the coolest features of this bathroom aside from the dancing rainfall shower. The water is cascading down his chiseled arms and torso like a friggin serious with his dark green eyes. His sleeve tattoos reaching the back of his hand and the very prominent wolf head glisten like inviting and hypnotizing me toe inside and join him. The Volkov effect. I shook my head at him signaling that I am not in the mood for whatever it is that he is thinking to do. He then turns the shower off, took a white towel, wipes his face, hair, and body, and then wrapped it around his waist. My goodness, he moves so smoothly, the man can even make the most mundane actions hot and sexy. To my surprise, Alexei pulled my butt up from the counter and then carried me outside towards the bed. I enveloped my legs around his waist and wrapped my arms around his neck. This man hands down has one of the most beautiful faces in the world. I am not surprised that he gets too much attention from women everywhere we go. And the best part is, he is now my husband. My ever understanding and sweet Alexei. He slowly ced me in bed but I did not let go of him, so my arms kept clinging around his neck. Niki is already wearing a green robe reaching the knee and pants just like that of his brother. He pulls out a vinyl record from one of thepartments of the drawer mounted to the wall and carefully ced it on the turntable next to him. He then sat on his chair in the corner of our bedroom where there is a window and lit a cigar. He just sat there and continued looking at us while the song is ying. This reminds me so much of one of the pictures I saw in his office at Volkov Holdings. One of Pa Vyachev''s pictures, with the cigar and that exact same leather chair and his exact same cane. Like father like son I guess. "This is one of Poppa Vyachev and Poppa Viktor''s favorite records." Alexei whispered. "Really? It''s a great song. The Pa''s had good taste in music." "They did. They had great taste in everything." Alexei replied with obvious pride beaming from his face. I wonder what kind of rtionship they had with Matushka before. Were they so in love as well? Was Pa Vyachev like Niki to her? Was Pa Viktor as sweet and as amazing as Alexei? I am tempted to ask about their rtionship but then I am so bothered by how Niki is acting at the moment. "Uhmm Alexei, what''s up with your brother?" I asked hoping that he knows why Niki is acting all weird. "He just needs some time to think." He answered. "Think of what?" Usually when he''s this quiet while looking at me like that, either he''s mad or wants to devour me or both. And I can''t think of something that I did which made him act like this. "I don''t know. He''s got a lot on his te right now. Could be anything." Alexei replied like he''s used to this side of Niki already. The warm light from themp behind him makes him look like a friggin psycho. Geez. "Hmm. Is he okay? Has your brother gone mad? Should we talk to him?" This time Alexei chuckles like he found my questions really funny. "Princess, I thought you know that he''s mad?" I smacked Alexei''s chest and shook my head on him. He then rolls over to my side and spoons me while we are both facing Niki''s direction. The Boss of the Russian Mafia is now tapping his phone while his lit cigar is on the right side of his lips. His eyebrows are crinkled while looking at the screen of his phone. Now I am highly suspicious. So I went in his direction and sat on hisp carefully not to touch his wound. He quickly unlit his cigar and ced it on the ashtray. "What''s wrong Niki?" I asked. "What can you say about Yuri''s marriage?" He asked. I did not expect that he would ask me about this. I just feel like, regardless of my opinion about the situation, there''s really nothing I can do. They have already made a decision. "Whatever makes Yuri happy, I am going to support it Niki." If only he can get married and still be part of the Mafia. But I know it''s just wishful thinking. "So, you support their marriage?" Niki continued as if my answer would even matter. "Yes, if it will make Yuri happy." I replied as a matter of factly. "Okay. Can you tell him in person that you support their marriage? I am sure he''s going to appreciate hearing from you. You know, before he leaves the mansion." Niki said. It actually makes sense. Myst conversation with Yuri this evening was nothing but unsupportive of him or his decision to marry. He is leaving tomorrow and will have his freedom to love and start a family. The least that I can do is be happy for him and support him no matter what. So I decided to talk to Yuri. I went to his room but I ended up overhearing his conversation with Tatyana. It even came to a point that I think they were arguing or something. I could be wrong though. They are speaking in Russian. And I was not able to help myself but to record their conversation so I can have it tranted to meter on. My heart pounded inside my ribcage when I identally pushed the door slightly as I was adjusting to get a clearer recording. Oh my goodness. What am I doing? And why am I even doing this? I walk as fast as I can away from Yuri''s room just so I don''t get caught snooping on other people''s business. "Madame? Do you need anything?" It''s Yuri and he is closing in on me. I did not have a choice but to stop and face him. "Uhm I just want to-talk. I am sorry I did not mean to interrupt." And snoop around and record apparently. I just bit my lower lip in embarrassment. "Madame." "Just call me Belle. I mean, I won''t be your Madame anymoree tomorrow." The words rolled off my tongue and I immediately regretted it. He makes a few steps forward so that we stood closer. "Belle." He said, looking me in the eye. "Take care of yourself and the babies." I feel like a lump is forming in my throat, slowly suffocating me. I am the type of person who hates goodbyes. Especially when the person saying goodbye is someone I care for dearly. "Thank you Yuri. I am going to miss you." At this point, it''s taking everything in me not to cry. My goodness hormones please just not now! "I am d you have found someone who will take care of you. I wish you to have a happy life. I want you to know that I support your decision to get married and be happy." For some reason, I feel like Yuri did not want to hear what I just said. His adam''s apple moved and I can actually see the pain in his eyes. "That''s good to know---Belle." --- The next morning I woke up realizing that Niki and Alexei are not in our bed anymore. The whole mansion is so quiet-more like somber silence. Today, Yuri will leave the mansion. I did not see him or even Tatyana around anymore. The only people I see are the mansion''s security and my I.V. My husbands left me voice messages saying that they will be back as soon as they can. This is the part of the day that I actually don''t like. Waking up alone and waiting for Niki and Alexei toe home safe as the day ends. Usually, they stay in for breakfast and until I wake up before leaving the mansion. But when important things are happening in the mafia, they leave early and go homete. I spent the day starting with my regr home check-up with the ob-gyn. I am seven weeks pregnant, she said that I can actually hear the twin''s heartbeats this time. I got excited at first but then I remember Niki. I know this moment is as special to him as it is to me. So I held it in abeyance. I want to do it with him and Alexei beside me. I read books and articles about pregnancy in the pantry the rest of the day until eventually, I realized that it''s already dusk. I was about to go upstairs to take a bath and prepare for dinner but then I was halted when I noticed someone''s petting Petrushka and Valkyre. He''s with Ivan and Vasily in the grand foyer. He''s wearing a ck leather jacket and jeans. His luggage is being taken by one of the men towards the rooms down the hall where Boris, Yuri and Dimitri''s rooms are located. "Hello Madame Volkov. It''s nice to see you again." He said with a smile on his face. "You are Yuri''s brother." I am actually surprised that he is here. I know that he is the one in charge with our business in Russia. What is he even doing here? "It''s Andrey, Madame." He replied. "Yes, Andrey. You''reing to visit Yuri?" I asked as I think I have an idea why he''s really here. "Ugh, maybe." He answered with a naughty smile on his face. "Where is he taking your luggage?" "He is taking my things to Yuri''s room. I was informed that it''s vacant starting today." He replied. "Yuri mighte to visit, so his room is not vacant. There are plenty of rooms in this mansion. I''ll have one of the rooms prepared for you." I know it''s far from possible but still, I don''t want him upying Yuri''s room. The man chuckled like he found my statement ridiculous. "Madame Volkov, when a man is banished from the mafia, he is noting back ever. There are no visits. When the wolf has been burned, there''s no turning back." "What do you mean by when the wolf has been burned?" I asked curiously. "The burning of Yuri''s wolf." He said while showing me his tattoo of the monogram V on the back of his right hand -- the one peaking behind the sleeve of his jacket. The same exact tattoo I see on Niki, Alexei, and their men. "They are going to burn Yuri''s tattoo?" I asked. "They are going to get rid of them Madame." He replied. I feel like I am going to vomit just by the thought of it. Exactly how they are going to do it, I do not want to know. I have been trying to embrace my life as the wife of the Russian Mafia Boss and Underboss but there times that I feel like I am in over my head. I so wanted to take a calming hot shower but it''s not advised by my doctor as it will raise my internal temperature which is not good for the twins. So I just took a quick normal shower and changed to some cute bodycon drape champagne satin dress as I await for my husbands toe home. And then I saw Andrey about to go out with the other men. I asked if I could talk to him in private in which the man dly obliged. "Uhm, I want to ask a favor. Please don''t tell anyone, including Niki and Alexei?" "It depends on the favor. Let me hear it first." He retorted. "Well, I have a voice recording. I want you to trante it for me." "If it''s the Bosses'' conversation, the answer is no Madame. You know there is a reason why the brothers talk Russian when you''re around. They just want to protect you." I ced my index finger in the middle of his lips to shut him up because I.V can hear him. "Quiet Andrey! This is not my husbands conversation. It''s, well, it''s Yuri and Tatyana''s conversation." His eyes widened like he has seen a unicorn. A smirk slowly grew on his face. "Madame! Oh my god! Why would you do that?!" He said. Acting all surprised and scandalized. He covered his mouth pretending to be horrified of what I did. "Are you gonna help me or what?" I asked borderline irritated. "Let me hear it first. Then I decide." He said. He sat on the chair and waited for me to hand him the phone. - Scene when Belle was recording Yuri and Tatyana''s conversation - Tatyana: (Sitting on the corner of the bed while Yuri packs his things) You''re in love with Madame Volkov? Yuri: I am not paying you to ask questions. Tatyana: We don''t have to leave the mansion this soon. (hugs him from the back) Yuri: (Removes Tatyana''s arms from around his waist and pushes her to the bed) This is not happening Taty. The deal is you do as I tell you to do. I give you a second chance in life to leave Zora. We will leave the mansion. Tatyana: You will not be part of the Mafia anymore! You will be dead! All your enemies wille sneaking at you every day of your life. No one is going to help you. You won''t have the protection of the Russian wolf anymore! You can''t do this. It''s suicide! Yuri: I made a mistake! It''s fitting that I face the consequences of that mistake. Tatyana: What mistake? Is it about Madame Volkov? If it''s about her, maybe she''s the one who can Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. change everything. (Both hear a light screeching of the door, they did not realize that it was slightly open all this time) -end of scene- _-_ Belle''s POV I am in the SUV with Andrey and I.V on our way to the location where they will do the burning of the wolf on Yuri. I did not realize the seriousness of the implication of Yuri''s decision to leave the mansion until now. Tatyana is right. Once Yuri leaves the mansion he will be an easy target to his enemies. The enemies he umted over the years he''s been in the mafia. And I know for a fact that the Russian Mafia is his whole life. He will not have the protection of the organization. He will be on his own fending off enemies from every direction. He paid Tatyana to pretend to be his fianc¨¦ because he feltpelled to face the consequences of his mistake. And I think I know what he is talking about. Still there are a lot of things that I do not understand. No matter, I think that he is making a huge mistake in leaving the mansion. I hope that we are not toote. Andrey said that once the burning is done, it''s done. There is no turning back. He is permanently banished from the Mafia. We arrived at a boat=house inside a fish port somewhere. There are several cars and SUVs already parked outside and judging by the amount of security ced around the boat-house, I think that Niki and Alexei are here. When our SUV pulled over, I immediately stepped down and went past the men who are guarding outside. I walked as fast as I could. My heart is already beating a million times praying to the heavens that I am still not toote. When I entered inside, I feel like my heart is going to burst out of my chest when I saw the hot iron they usually use in branding cattle on the farm. Only that, this one is customized for human torture. It''s already molten hot and is about to be used on Yuri. His hand is shackled on top of the table to put it in ce while he is biting on to a towel. Yuri is half-naked, all bloody and sweaty. He looks like he has been beaten up badly. I could not understand why they have to do this. I looked at Niki and Alexei disappointingly. I am so mad at them right now! It''s not like Yuri betrayed the Mafia. He just made one simple mistake. He fell in love! But that does not mean that he deserves to be treated like this after all he has done for the family. The people inside were halted and waited for Niki''s signal on what to do. So before he could ever decide, I walk up towards Yuri, sat on hisp, and wrapped my arms around his neck. "No! Niki, Alexei stop this! Please!" I screamed. "Madame. Please don''t do this. This has to be done." Yuri said almost whispering. He then spoke to Niki in Russian but my husband did not seem to hear or care about what he just said. "No! You said you love me right? Do you love me?" I asked as I turn his head to face me. Everything and everyone inside the boat-house stood still. It was dead silent like everyone is holding their breaths. Even Niki and Alexei seem to be just waiting for things to unravel in front of them. Chapter 31 Chapter 31 Belle''s POV "Tell me. Do you love me Yuri?" I ask, looking into his eyes. At this point, I know that I am the only one who can change his mind. He is leaving the Mafia for the wrong reason. He was willing to fake his engagement with Tatyana just so he can face the consequences of his mistake. There are some things that still don''t make sense to me but at this moment the most important thing is that I do something to prevent him from leaving. "Yuri, if you love me, why do you have to leave? You don''t have to do this. I know the truth about Tatyana. Stay with us. We are your family." He connected his gaze on me, looking at me intently as if he wants to say something. "Ya lyublyu tebya Belle. Forgive me." He then looked away and spoke in Russian towards Niki and Alexei. I instantly panicked as I am now in the blind. So I clung on to Yuri even tighter as I am determined not to let him go. He is making a mistake and I am not about to let him live that mistake. "No! Yuri, I want you to stay." I begged as I am already panicking. The next thing I knew his hand was unshackled from on top of the table by Boris and the melting device was put away. I looked around just to make sure that everything is in the clear. I felt relieved as Niki''s men stood down and away from the table. I then gently wipe Yuri''s sweaty and bloody face using the white towel and made sure that I do not touch his wounds. "Madame, I''m okay." Said Yuri, holding my hand and then cing it on his chest. "You''re not leaving anymore?" I asked. "No, I am not leaving the Mafia." I wasn''t able to help myself and so I hugged him tightly. The man instantly winced in pain but still he had a small smile on his face. I told him to sit still as we are going to take him to the clinic. But then when I am about to get up, his arms wrapped around my waist tightly as if he doesn''t want to let me go. I feel like he wants to tell me something but opted not to say it. Slowly, he tilted his head and rested his beautiful face on my cheek. He must be tired and hurting. Why does Yuri have to go through this? If only I could turn back time, perhaps I could have been indifferent to him or go as far as to be a bitch to him so that he would not think that he is in love with me --- if only it''s as simple as this. I know more than anyone in this room, Niki and Alexei had a final say in this so I went to thank them. I told them what I found out about Yuri and Tatyana and that they did the right thing in stopping the burning of the wolf on Yuri. The man is not in a rtionship with anyone and that he is not getting Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. married so there is no reason for him to leave the mansion anymore. He is still part of the Russian Mafia. However, the other Volkov brother looks like he is not having it. As between him and Niki, it is Alexei who had bad blood against Yuri because he once thought that he was being reced by the man. He even threatened to kill him. Ipletely understand Alexei but there is really nothing that he should be jealous about. Nothing and no one can ever rece him and his brother in my life. That is the absolute truth. I wrapped my arms around his waist and rested my head on his chest, "Alexei I just don''t want Yuri to make the wrong decision. He will be in danger when he leaves the Mafia. You know that." "You always care for everything and everyone." He retorted. "Is that a bad thing?" I looked up at him but the man just looks straight ahead, being stubborn. I held his chin to look me in the eyes. He took a deep breath as if giving up. "Yes because you will get hurt. You cannot save everyone around you Belle. There are a lot of things in this world that are out of your control no matter what you do. It''s not going toe your way all the time." He replied. He is right. There are things that are beyond my control. But that doesn''t mean that I stop caring just because things will not go my way. I will still try. "Can we take Yuri to the clinic now please Alexei?" He looked towards Niki''s direction. I know he wants his brother to agree first so I grab Niki''s hand toe huddle with us. "Niki, please?" He looked at his brother for a moment before nodding at him. My husband then held my hand leading our way out of the boathouse. "Thank you Niki. We should take Yuri to Dr. Marcus now." The moment the door was shut from behind us; Niki instantly made me face him, took a hanky from his chest pocket and handed it to Dimitri. He then wrapped his arm around me, while Dimi covered my ears tightly using their hankies. What is going on? At this point, my heart started to bang in my chest. I feel like everything turned slow motion. I tried to move so I can run back inside the boathouse but Niki held me tight. My lips parted in disbelief when I heard the muffled sound of sessive groans. My knees weakened as I hear the pain of torture and betrayal. I looked up at Niki, tears swelling in my eyes. "Why? Why, Niki?" I asked, almost begging. I hit his chest again and again as I cannot contain the hurt that I am feeling in my heart. I thought everything was going to be alright. I thought I have already made Yuri change his mind. Did Niki and Alexei do this? Did they just trick me so that they can proceed with the burning of the wolf? When everything went silent, Dimitri uncovered my ears and stepped back. Niki remained cold. He just held me tight, all wrapped around his protective embrace. His eyes are devoid of emotion. "This is Yuri''s decision." He said. His decision? But he said that he''s not leaving the mafia anymore! Did he lie to me? I could not believe that Yuri would lie to me in my face. "He wants this? He made this decision?" I asked, utterly hurt. His brothers and the Mafia wasn''t enough for him to stay. More so hurt because I now know that I wasn''t enough reason for him to stay. "Yes. He''s made his decision. There was nothing you can do to change his mind baby." Niki answered while wiping my tears. There was nothing I could have done to change Yuri''s mind. I keep on repeating this in my head again and again just so I can convince myself that everything is going to be okay and that Yuri really wants out of the Mafia. Shouldn''t I be happy because he''s free now? But why does it hurt this much? Chapter 32 Chapter 32 Belle''s POV Niki and Alexei are still outside the boathouse with Andrey, Boris, and Dimitri. I''m in the SUV waiting for them to finish so we can all have dinner and go home. Yuri is now out of the Mafia. I did my best to keep him from leaving but he still chose to leave. And so I will let him be. I am done crying. I have to get past this and focus my attention on the loves of my life. I will not let this swallow me into sadness. My heart is aching but I will choose not to sulk. I have two men to take care of and two babiesing very soon. They need my full and undivided attention. I dialed my phone and called Niki as I look at him from the SUV. He must have felt his phone vibrate on his chest. When he realized it''s me calling, he answered it while looking straight at the SUV. "Niki, when you''re done, I want to leave. If you have other business to attend to, I want toe with you. Also, you can eat my pussy tonight." I see him adjust his tie even though all I can see is his silhouette surrounded by smoke and the light reflected by the water. "That is an offer I will never refuse." He replied. "Hand the phone to your brother please?" I asked. The man nudged his brother and gave him his phone. "Da?" Alexei said. He must not know that it''s me on the phone. "Alexei, I want to make love after you''re done with your appointments tonight. We''ll do it gently if you''re afraid to hurt me." I bit my lower lip as heat crawled up my face. It''s been a couple of days since the three of us had sex. Mainly because the doctor advised us to give it a rest for a while after our exhausting trip to Colombia. She did not tell it to my face because the two are also beside me, but I read between the lines. What she really wanted to say was that ''girl give your vagina a rest for goodness sakes, two dicks a night might be the cause of your god damn abdominal cramps''. Much to the dismay of Niki and Alexei. "You know what I would really like princess?" He said as he smoothly walks away from his brother and the rest of the men facing the dock, his back against the direction of the SUV. All I see is his perfectly tailored suit and one hell of a sexy back. Dammit! I gulped, "What is it Alexei?" "You---sitting on my face." He replied, with pure lust. I bit my lower lip as I did not know what to say. Just the thought of it makes me writhe in anticipation. "My tongue brushing every inch of that sweet chubby pussy, gliding up and down and in circles. I will suckle your clit gently until I hear you moan my name. Then, I will go down to your pussy hole and reach as deep as I can, all the while collecting your pussy juice. I''m going to y with it with my tongue and drink it like vodka." In the name of the father, the son, and the holy spirit. Lord, please forgive me for enjoying whatever this man is saying. The man sure knows how to do phone sex correctly. I wonder if Niki would want to take advice from his brother? I just giggle inside. I honestly did not know what to reply. I ampletely speechless. I''m not going to think of Vodka the same way again. Thanks to his sexually charged statement about the drink that represents their heritage. Alexei chuckles, "What''s the matter princess? Did you bite your tongue?" He continued arrogantly. This time, he faces the SUVs direction, his other hand inside his pocket. I instantly canceled the call andunch my back on my seat. I fanned my face as I feel like overheating. Oh my goodness. My pregnancy hormones are not helping my cause at the moment. It took a little while for them to reach the SUV as Niki still uses a cane to walk. Although he is healing fast, in fact, I think in a few days, he can already walk without limping. That man''s stubbornness sometimes really works for him. They both took their seats beside me. I tried as hard as I can to not meet Alexei in the eye because I know that he will just tease me. "I would kill for some Vodka right now." Andrey eximed as he sits at the front passenger. "No!" My voice higher pitched than normal. Niki, Boris, and Andrey all looked at me as if wondering what is up with my reaction. Alexei however just snorted while smiling naughtily. I instantly shoot him a look. "Ugh. What I mean is, Andrey should not drink Vodka because it''s too early." Geez. I then reached for Niki''s and Alexei''s hands and held them towards the armrest of my seat. "I do not want to talk about Yuri anymore especially in the mansion or in any of our conversations," I said while looking straight ahead on the road. I reckon this is the best way to forget about him. To never speak about him and just let him go. "Andrey, you can take his room for as long as you want." I said to the brother of the man who just broke my heart. I know that Andrey cares for his brother even though they grew apart. He brought me to the boathouse without hesitation when I begged him to, even though he might get in trouble. I have requested Niki that we have dinner in a restaurant instead of the mansion- an opportunity to get myself some real food. Not just vegetables and fruits. I feel like I''m slowly turning into a goat if they will continue feeding me with leaves and grass. This brings me to my next concern. "Niki, where is goatee?" My heart skipped a beat when our SUV swerved to the right momentarily before going back on the right side of the road. Boris must have lost his focus for a moment. Alexei instantly scolded the big man, letting out expletives in Russian. Niki on the other hand shoots Boris'' a sharp look on the rearview mirror. I feel like the Mafia Boss turned into the old d the Vampire. If only looks could hypnotize and kill. Yikes. I just brush Niki''s arm to let this one go. I know my husbands are just looking after our safety but it could be that Boris is also affected by Yuri''s departure from the Mafia. He could cut the man some ck for this one. "Niki, baby. I was asking about goatee." "Goatie is food. I mean - good. Goatie is busy grazing the grass near theke baby." Niki answered. "Yah? Howe I did not see him there?" "You will see the animal tomorrow. Isn''t that right Boris?" Niki replied. The big man just grumbled like he usually does when he doesn''t necessarily want to speak. On our way to dinner, perhaps Niki noticed that I''m already tired and sleepy so he made me sit on hisp and cuddled me as he and his brother usually do. I''m trying not to show that I am actually exhausted after what happened tonight but my pregnancy is really making it hard for me to even pretend to be strong -- at least physically. He brushes my belly with his hand as he nts kisses on my neck and cheek. "My beauty and my little Volkov beasts. What do you think they''re doing inside?" He whispered. "I''m sure they are eager to see their amazing fathers." I answered. "I''m pretty sure they are eager to punch me in the face for always fucking things up with their beautiful mother." He replied. "That too. But, before that could happen, did you know that we can already hear their heartbeat?" I whispered while resting my head on his shoulder. "Really?" He asked with a small smile on his face. His eyes are twinkling like the stars. My heart could not almost take it. He really is happy because of these little ones. "Yes. We can do it tomorrow if you want?" "Are you kidding me? Boris, cancel all my engagements tomorrow." I just shook my head at him. Oh Niki. --- We are at an exclusive club, apparently for the super-rich of New York City. That is why it was no surprise that when we arrived there we saw Artan and Axel De Alba having dinner with their men and somedies who look like supermodels. We just went past them as they were a little far from the part of the club where we are being escorted. Seeing Artan with another woman however, makes me feel weird inside. Yes, I want him to move on and find a nice woman who can take care of him and Aria but at the same time and for some selfish reason, I don''t. I do not like what I am feeling right now. So I just focused my attention back on Niki and Alexei. I held hands with Alexei while Niki is talking to some men who came over from the other lounge table. When we arrived in the club, I could really tell that most if not all know Niki as they would nce innocuously, pretending to not care. Exactly how powerful and influential Niki is in mainstream New York still amazes me. He has managed to be on top of his game in being the Mafia Boss and by owning legitimate businesses at the same time, of course with the help of his ever-supportive brother. "Sit on myp." Whispered Alexei while tapping his thigh twice. I obliged and sat on hisp. He wraps his arms around my waist as he squishes me tighter to him. "You should not have gone to the boathouse." He said. I know he will start lecturing me again so I covered his mouth and rained kisses on his cheeks, it made the man chuckle. I do not want to talk about the boathouse as it will just lead to us talking about Yuri. "Mr. Volkov, reserve your energy for tonight. Don''t waste it into lecturing me okay?" I said teasingly. "I always have energy for fucking. It justes naturally by being with you." He retorted. I just shook my head at him. "I love you Alexei." "I love you too my princess, my wife." He said with a certain sparkle in his eyes when he calls me his This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org. wife. The food is about to be served and I can actually smell it. Steak baby! I feel like I''m in heaven. After so many days of being deprived of meat, this would be a nice cap for the night. I asked Alexei if I could sit back on my seat. The man allowed me to but not without him smoothly groping my ass first. The food was ced on the table buffet style but at the same time, each of the men gets to have a huge chunk of steak on individual tes. While I wait for my food, I unintentionally nced in Artan''s direction. This time thedy is pouring a ss of liquor into the man''s ss. Well, that''s counter- productive. I have been preventing that man from drinking too much but this bitch just does the opposite. I decided to message Artan. [ That would be enough liquor for tonight Artan. ] He saw the message but then he did not even bother to reply. He just ced the phone back on the table, nced at me momentarily and then focused his attention back on the people on their table. How insolent. He downed his ss on more time and then let thedy pour him another one. I shoot him a look as he sports this stupid smirk on his face. Now he''s taunting me. [ Fine, Artan. If this is what you want, suit yourself. This is thest time you are going to hear from me. ] I hit send, ced my phone on the table and removed his conglomerate ring from my finger. I asked Boris to deliver the ring to their table. I don''t want anything to do with it anymore. If my words don''t mean anything to him, I might as well remove myself from his life for good. I will just take care of Aria myself if that stubborn man dies. Matushka insisted that it would be for the better if I still wear Artan''s and Axel''s rings especially now that we are at war with the German mob. The Conglomerate rule says that I am basically untouchable as I am not only considered the Russian Boss'' wife but also the Albanian''s and the Boss of the Cabana Cartel''s wife, essentially. This means that if anything happens to me because of the mob war, Axel and Artan now has the right to meddle as it is considered an attack against their organizations as well. To me, it is an unfair rule, especially in our case. I was the one who dered the war but the only people who are in danger right now are my family. Still, having this rule does not immune me from attacks from people outside the Conglomerate, hence the overprotective stance of Niki and Alexei over me. I almost ran out of patience waiting for my food when thest te to arrive is mine. Oh my goodness why? Green leafy vegetables. It''s a friggin'' te full of leaves. They all get to eat steak while I get a sd? Are they being serious right now? "Bon Apettit Madame Volkov." Says the server. Bon Apettit your face, mister! I swear I am one kale away from a meltdown. I want to cry. Like the open mouth ugly cry. I could already feel my tears threatening to fall. Pregnant hormones please be more patient. To add to my utter annoyance, I can see Artan walking in our direction and he doesn''t look like he''s happy at all. His jaw is tight and I can tell that he is pissed. Alexei just went to the privy and Niki is busy talking to a certain senator. So I decided to turn towards my husband to elude confrontation with Artan. But then I was halted when he got a hold of my waist and pulled me back towards his direction, albeit gently. "You''re taking away my only chance to protect you just because of one drink?" He whispered. He unbuttoned his jacket and sat beside me, taking over Alexei''s seat. I looked away as he was about to kiss me on my hair. "You returned my ring but not Axel De Alba''s?" He continued as if he got affected by the fact that I gave back his ring but not Axel''s. "Just go back to that woman Artan. She can obviously give what you want." I meant the liquor, but then it did not sound right when I said it. And I am not about to justify what I meant because I would just sound so defensive or maybe even --jealous. He had a puzzled look on his face at first and then an arrogant smirk followed. He sat morefortably on the chair, rested his thigh over the other. The side of his index finger is on his lips as if thinking. I just took my te and ate my sd begrudgingly without even waiting for the other boys toe settle. "What?" I asked. "Nothing. I am just having a great night." He replied. He then took my hand and forced his ring back around my finger. "That would be myst drink for tonight, okay? Are we good?" I did not answer. "Baby--" He continued. "Fine. We''re good." I retorted. ---- Scene of the Anonymous Call Niki got a call from an anonymous number. He answered it and excused himself from the person he was talking to. Niki: Da. Anonymous: As I live and breathe, Niki son of Vyachev Volkov. Niki: (Stayed silent) Anonymous: Aren''t you gonna ask who I am Volkov? Niki: My bad. Who the fuck is this? Anonymous: (Laughs) Like father like son, I see. Let me give you one piece of unsolicited advice. From the man who put a bullet through Vyachev''s and Viktor''s skull, I am absolutely certain you would want to hear this? Niki: (Recognizes the thick Russian ent and the reference to his father''s death.) Anonymous: Now that I have your full attention- Niki: Do you think you can y this game for long Sergey? Anonymous: You had your people scour Boston and New York to find me. Your fake mother tortured Yrina and is now hunting down my wife. Your brother who is sick in the head beat to the pulp and decapitated every Yvanislov he can find. And now you sent your assassin to kill all of my sons---what''s left of my blood. Niki: It''s good that you are counting and keeping tabs. I hope you enjoy burying each one of them - or shall I say, what''s left of them? Anonymous: (Silence as Niki obviously got into the man''s head) Niki: (Snorts) You are a dead man Sergey. It''s just a matter of time. You started this with my father but I will be the one to finish this with you---down to thest member of your family. Anonymous: If you kill Yrina, I have got nothing to lose. A man who''s got nothing to lose is someone you should not be messing around. I hope for your sake, your father taught you that. Niki: My Father taught me so many things, fortunately for you, you are on the receiving end of the most part of it. Anonymous: Careful boy, you have a lot of enemies who are all willing to help me pin you down. And they are closer than you think. You kill my daughter, everything you hold dearly will tip off one by one like dominoes. Niki: Pray that I don''t find you first. Anonymous: I don''t make it a habit to pray Volkov. But the people in my church think that I am a good person and I don''t want to disappoint them so I prepared something for you if you don''t mind. Consider this as my wedding gift to your brother who just married your wife. ughs) How fucked up is that? Niki: (Looks at Belle who is now eating her sd) Anonymous: Aww isn''t she a delicate flower? Who would have thought finding Volkov''s Achilles heel would be this easy? Niki''s heart skipped a beat when he sees his wife struggle to breathe. She held her neck as she slowly runs out of breath. Her chest is heaving, her body is all flushed and her lips start to turn purple. Chapter 33 Chapter 33 Third Person POV Artan is holding a gun in his hand, on his way to the kitchen. He can''t believe that Belle, the love of his life, was holding on to her life on his own watch. She was dying right before his eyes. He walks past Alexei who just came from the privy. The Volkov brother rushes to the dining hall realizing that something is wrong. The Albanian Mob Boss entered the kitchen; his men had already gathered the restaurant personnel in one ce. Adnan, grabs the chef who prepared the food for the Russian Mafia and pushed his face to the kitchen ind. "He was running Boss." "I did not know that Mrs. Volkov is allergic to olives I swear Mr. Bogdani!" The man is all sweaty and stuttering in fear. Besian took the chopping board and holds the chef''s hand in ce. "I despise being lied to especially when the life of someone I love is on the line. Now tell me, who did this?" "I swear to god Mr. Bogdani, please --- ahhhh! Ahhhh!" The man screams in pain as Artan stabs the knife through the chef''s hand. The blood gushed out of the wound instantly. "If any of you so much lie to me, consider yourself dead. Now, I need a name." Artan warned the rest of the people inside the kitchen. A teenage boy steps forward in fear, "Mr. Bogdani---." "Pietro!" Growled the chef. "It was ady, her name is Victoria. She was talking to him before the Russians arrived." Artan signals the boy toe to him. "You did good Pietro." He taps his shoulder and gives the boy a faint smile. He then signals the rest of the kitchen staff to leave. "I did not have a choice, Mr. Bogdani! They have my family. Please!" Bang! The sound of the gunshot to the head rang inside the kitchen ominously. The chef drops lifelessly. His blood dripped down the floor slowly forming a warm pool of red. _ Belle''s POV "Where is the goddam Epipen!" Niki eximed as he carries me in his arms. Everything around me is starting to blur. I can already hear a faint ringing in my ear as things begin to move in slow motion. I am holding on to my husband, desperately gasping for air. I need to breathe for mine and my babies'' sake. "It''s in the car Boss. Dmitri is on his way." Boris answered. "We don''t have time. We are taking her to the hospital now!" Alexei said frantically. I held on to Alexei''s hand tightly. Truth be told, I think I can''tst a minute more in this situation. I have had several allergic attacks before, most of which were fatal -- to the point that my father banned the use of olives and its derivatives in my former schools, workce, and the presidential pce. It was ridiculous, to say the least but it was all for my own good. We are on our way out when Dmitri came back with a gunshot on his shoulder. My heart is starting to palpitate because apparently we are being attacked and this damn allergy is trying to kill me at the same time. "The SUVs are not an option now Boss." Dmitri said as I.V helps him tie a towel around his wound. "We can''t get to the helipad either. They disarmed my men and took my pilot." Axel inserted as he approaches us. He and his men are already pulling out their guns as if preparing for the worse. "It''s the Germans. My vehicles are on standby but we have to go now. My people are holding the ce for as long as they can." Said Artan while loading his gun with bullets. He looks like he just came from the gunfight himself. Oh my goodness. "They are with Sergey." Niki said. There''s silence the moment my husband said Yvanslov''s name. They looked at each other as if expecting it already. "They want war. Let''s give them war." Axel answered. Niki and Alexei look livid. "We will get our wife to safety first. And we need that EpiPen now." Niki said. My consciousness is slowly fading; whatever it is that they are nning to do they need to do it now. "It''s going to be okay baby. Look at me. I will not let anything happen to you and our babies. Alexei and I got this." Niki said as he cups my face. I know they will. I have no doubt about it. They are the feared Volkov brothers of the New York underground criminal world for a reason. And now I am going to see them in their element with my own two eyes. If only I am not dying any moment soon. All of the Bosses'' men went out first to cover our way. Alexei stood in front of us, holding up his guns in both hands. Axel is to his right and Artan on his left side, all ready and prepared for a shootout. As soon as we heard continuous shots, we hurriedly exited the hall. It''s the signal that our men are already engaging in a gunfight with the Germans-the cover that we are waiting for. The moment we went past the entrance, bullets started to fly here and there. The sound of the shots vibrated in my ears in a deafening tter. Smoke began to float in the air as the bullets shatter almost anything and anyone they came across with. The Germans fell to the floor one by one while the Mafia men surrounding me rain bullets at whoever gets in the way. Dmitri is already waiting for us in the elevator, "Boris, Vasily, and Ivan are in position. When you reach the car park at the second level, you should be good. Hospital is not an option boss. It''s too far from here." He said, letting us all in the elevator while slinging the gun back on his side. He knelt on one knee on the floor, opened a ck box which contained grenades, and gave the other two to Alexei. At this point, I can feel my eyes slowly shut down. I think I have an idea of what I look like right now. Let me check. I tapped Niki''s face to get his attention. His eyes widened inplete and utter horror. He even said something to Alexei in Russian like he is seriously terrified. Yep. I look like a chubby pufferfish at the moment -- probably with big swollen purple lips, purple spider veins all over my face, and swollen eyelids. What scares me however is my swollen throat that gets worse by the second. The tightening of my airways can lead to anaphxis, which is fatal especially now that I am pregnant. "Nikoi. Can''t breath." Are the only words I was able to muster before my worldpletely turned dark. _ Third Person POV Niki is now seething with anger. Belle just passed out in his arms and the only thing that could save her life was carelessly left in the SUV. How could he let this happen is something that will haunt him for the rest of his life. She has a pulse which means they still have time to save her. He just needs to figure out how to get the epinephrine from their SUV before his wife, the only person that is keeping him sane, sumbs to this fatal allergic reaction. The Russian Mafia Boss refuses to look at her because the image of Yelena''s face keeps shing like a fucking nightmare. The thought that Belle will die in his arms and on his own watch is like living that nightmare all over again. Alexei notices that his brother is slowly losing his shit so he immediately took his attention. He handed his guns to Dmitri to talk to his brother face to face. He ces his palms below Niki''s ears and forced the man to look him in the eye. "I know what you''re thinking, but that is not going to happen to her. You hear me? Remember, you are going to be a father bro. Can you fucking imagine that? You? Volkov? A father. Yah?" Somehow, that puts some sense to him as he immediately went back to his normal Volkov self. Niki nods at his brother. "We will get what we need from the SUV and do what we do best." He said. "Yeah-the two of us, doing what we do best brother." Alexei taps Niki''s face proudly. He then lets out a wicked smirk. "You know, I could kiss you right now. I''m pretty sure Belle would enjoy hearing about itter." Alexei added yfully. Axel, Artan and Dmitri snorted in unison. Alexei knows that joking him about this irritates Niki to the bone. And that''s exactly what he needs right now. A vicious, ruthless and a mad Volkov-- the brother that he always knew. "Get out of my face before I shove down the grenade down your throat." Niki retorted. Alexei lets out a content smirk. He got him. He then took his gun from Dmitri and turned to face the elevator door. Truth is, the underboss is worried that Belle might not make it. Not only that they are up against the Germans and the Yvanislovs, but they are also running out of time to save the only person who makes his and his brother''s lives worth living for. In Alexei''s mind, he will make the people who did this to Belle, pay a hard price. They arrived at the second level of the building where Boris, I.V and Artan''s men are waiting. There are already several men lying dead on the surface, scattered all over the car park. "Take the Cadic." Artan said, while signaling his men to hand over the key to Alexei. There are two cars left and their n is to send out decoys so the Volkov brothers can go to their SUVs parked in front of the building using the armored Cadic. Niki ced Belle on the back carefully while the other men got inside the other cars. "Volkov and I will talk soon." Said Axel to Alexei. "We got it from here. Just take care of her." Said Artan. Alexei nodded and rushed to the passenger seat. The stillness inside the vehicle is deafening while waiting impatiently for the SUVs to disappear from their sight. Niki will drive while his brother shoots whoever gets in their way. They heard incessant gunshots from afar, which meant that Axel and Artan are now being tailed by the Germans. Niki then cruised through the exit of the car park and elerated their way out. Unsurprisingly, they were unknown armed men guarding in front of the building where their SUVs are parked nearby. "Just like the old times brother." Alexei said. Excitement simmers at the pit of his stomach. "Just like the old times." Niki answered as he steps on the gas for full throttle. This caught the Germans off guard. Before they know it, Niki was able to drift the Cadic through the most ideal spot tomit multiple manughters. The armored car swung to a curve drawing beautiful skid marks on the ground. As in perfect timing, Alexei hurled the grenades towards the Germans like nothing. Their car sped away in seconds before a loud explosion sted everyone within a 16-yard radius. "Holy shit!" Alexei eximed. "Goddam! Where did Dmitri get those babies from?" "The fucking Chechen kid is a psycho." Niki said referring to Dimitri. Those who were lucky to be far enough from the st still looked jaded. They attempted to shoot back, but it was toote. From behind the smoke-filled air, Alexei appeared to finish the job. The underboss strafed them with his automatic guns, making sure no one gets away alive. One by one, they fell to the ground bloody and lifeless. It was a massacre. Alexei went straight to their SUV and took the ck bag in thepartment which contained the Epipens. However, it wasn''t over. As the smoke from the st slowly disappears into thin air, another group of armed men appeared from the building. Niki shed a signal light to Alexei, warning him of the iing danger. Alexei stood still, his back against the group of men, anticipating what is about to happen. He secured the package under his jacket and pops his neck as he prepares for another shootout. "Ah, the things I would do for love." Whispered Alexei to himself. Niki gave him a hand signal on what to do. He nodded and held his guns in both hands securely. "Hang on baby. This won''t take long. " Niki said to Belle as if the woman that he loves could hear him. He revs the luxury twin-turbocharged engine and rapidly floored it. The roar echoed and overpowered the sound of the shotsing from the automatic long guns of the enemy. The sparks from the tip of each barrel look like a dozen twinkling stars. Alexei drops himself to the ground and shoots non-stop while the Cadic suspends in the air momentarily, covering him from the countless bulletsing their way. The door from the driver''s seat opened while Niki transfers to the passenger seat. "I was just having fun." Alexei said yfully, grunting and touching his side while speeding away. "You''re bleeding." Niki said while looking at his brother''s side. His suit is already soaked in blood. "We both are." Alexei retorted, referring to Niki''s wound on his thigh. He then took the ck pouch from his jacket pocket and gave it to Niki. The Russian Mafia boss instantly jumped to the back of the car and punctured the epinephrine on Belle''s thigh. He waited for any reaction but Belle is still unconscious. - Belle''s POV I woke up from what feels like a very long slumber and instantly greeted by the chirping of the birds and one of the most tranquil nature views I have ever seen in my life. I am inside a room overlooking a naturalke and tall trees and lots of greenery. My heart fluttered with joy when I realized that I am actually inside a cabin in the woods. A smile formed on my face as I remember my cabin fantasies about having sex with my husbands outside without a care to the world; making the whole ce smell like cinnamon or vani as I make pancakes for them for breakfast while Niki and Alexei hunt for our food for supper. I just giggle inside. As I slowly got a feel of my surroundings, I noticed that I have an IV in the back of my hand, an oxygen cord lodged in my nose and a cardiac monitor. I tried getting up but then I felt lightheaded so I did not force it. What happened in that restaurant was one of the worst allergic reactions I have ever had. I really thought that I would actually die at that moment. But I also know that Niki and Alexei would never let anything happen to me and our babies. Babies. Panic instantly struck my gut. I scampered to reach for the buzzer thingy right next to my bed and pressed it menacingly. At this point, my eyes started to water in fear. Niki and Alexei came barging into the room and instantly embraced me. "Our babies. Are they okay? Please tell me they''re okay?! Niki! Alexei!" "It''s okay. You''re okay. Our babies are fine." Niki said reassuringly while cupping my face with his Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. strong and veiny hands. He reached for my lips and kissed me so deeply as if I have been away for so long. "They are Volkov babies, they are stubborn like that." He added yfully. "True. Volkov men tend to be stubborn like that." I smiled against his lips. "Hey, I said Volkov babies, not Volkov men." He answered. "Is there a difference?" I retorted. This puts a smile on Niki''s face. The worry I have seen in his eyes is now gone. "She needs to rest." Alexei said while inspecting my body perhaps from bruises and spider veins that I usually get when I have an allergic attack. "Alexei, I''m okay. Come here please." I tapped my bed so he can lie beside me. He obliged albeit hesitantly at first. I removed the heart monitor so I can move freely and snuggle with him and Niki. The moment I touched Alexei''s side, he grunts and attempted to act like nothing''s wrong. It was then that I realized that he got shot on his side. "Are you okay? Has this been checked by the doctor already? Alexei!" "Princess, it''s nothing." He said casually as he starts kissing my face. "How about you Niki? How''s your thigh?" "It''s nothing. Don''t worry about it." He replied, brushing off my concern. I just sighed in defeat. Why is it that when they get shot it''s always nothing? It really baffles me. Niki''s hand wrapped around my belly as he spoons me; sniffing my neck and hair like a maniac. His brother lip locks with me so passionately I feel like I''m going to run out of breath. I reached for their member yfully which made Alexei smile, his eyes are sparkling like he actually missed being naughty with me. Both of them are sporting a hard-on. Not that I am surprised. "Touch meter?" I asked shamelessly, I feel my face heat up. "That''s the n, princess." "Yah? So we have a n?" "Oh, we have a lot of ns." Niki answered. "You just need to recover and gather enough strength for tonight. We will take you on a date in town and then fuck, watch some movies and then fuck, eat at Mcdonalds and then fuck, go home-" "And then fuck." Alexei and I said in unison. The three of us chuckled at our own perverseness. And then there is silence. What happened to us in that restaurant is as serious as it can get. I almost died. Alexei got shot. We were attacked and I was the target because I am Niki''s only weakness-- the Russian Mafia''s weakness. Nothing and no one can ever get to them until I came into their lives. Now that I am Niki and Alexei''s wife, they have a way against them. Niki said that Dimitri, Boris and the other boys are still in New York and that we will remain off the grid for a few more days in this small town. Apparently, Niki, the Billionaire, have bought every square mile of this town years ago and paid the people to live here, precisely for this eventuality. Some are members of the Russian Mafia who relocated here from Kovrov. Basically, the whole town is Volkov town. To be continued.... Chapter 34 Chapter 34 The night after Niki and Alexei left Belle with someone whom they trust, back in the safe house. "She should be awake by now. Why isn''t she awake?" Said Artan. "Her doctor said she just needs rest. Her vitals are stable." Alexei replied while lodging bullets in his guns. "You said you would never let anything happen to her. You can protect everyone else around you except your wife?!" Artan narrowed his eyes on Niki. "You were there. I should be asking you why she almost died beside you." Niki shots back at Artan. He recalls Sergey telling him over the phone that the enemy is closer than he thinks. At the back of Niki''s mind however is that Artan would probably go ahead and kill him personally rather than make Belle suffer. He knows that the Albanian Mob Boss is still in love with his wife. Artan faced off with Niki, "use me all you want Volkov but Belle is the only person in the Russian Mafia I do not relish being dead." Axel interrupted, "Hey-can we not do this now? The real enemies are out there nning their next move while we bicker over who''s protecting her. It''s not the time to do this. Sergey Yvanislov and the German mob knew that Belle is under mine and Artan''s protections. This is an attack against the whole Conglomerate and not just the Russians anymore." "Sergey and the Germans are my problem. I will handle them." Niki said as he puts on the holster. "I can''t do that. The other Bosses are waiting for our next move." Axel replied. "Why don''t you just do whatever you want to do with the Conglomerate De Alba? Right now, our wife almost lost her life and the twins in her womb, we don''t have time to y politics." Alexei interrupted. Axel and Artan nced at each other as if agreeing that this isn''t the right time to insist. The brothers are enraged and blood is the only answer. Axel thought if this happened to him, his reaction would have been the same, worse even. Niki and Alexei left for the warehouse where they met with his men. Everyone in the Russian Mafia''s payroll showed up from different parts of New York and other neighboring states. Thest time this happened was when Vyachev and Viktor were brutally murdered. Niki rose hell in the big city. The enemies of the Russian Mafia were gathered for torture and those who were lucky enough to escape abduction were hunted down in pain of having their families in. It was a merciless killing spree. This went down as one of the most violent times in modern gangnd history. The Volkov brothers became powerful figures in the underground criminal world following the footsteps of their fathers and then more. Volkov holdings flourished and became one of the most sessful private investmentpanies in the whole of the United States of America. While Niki handled both the legitimate business and their underground stakes, Alexei took charge of the Russian Mafia. Alexei raises his hand signaling everyone in the warehouse. The Russian Mafia boss walked farther out while his brother stood behind him. "The German mob tried to end the life of my wife and my unborn children-the future of the Mafiya. And so, the same respect shall be afforded them. I called this meeting for one reason alone. I want every single member of the German Mob dead before the dawn breaks. The existence of the Otto family will end tonight in the hands of the Volkov Mafiya." Niki looked over his shoulder to meet Alexei in the eye. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Alexei nods and steps forward, "The Germans know we areing for them so let us show them what a bunch of eager motherfuckers we all are. Let this night be a warning to those who think they can cross the Russian Mafia. As a gift, all sources looted are yours to keep. The Conglomerate will take care of the clean-up when the job is done." - Meanwhile, somewhere in New York City... Anonymous (talking to Victoria): He is shutting me out of the loop. I have a feeling he suspects me already. All I know is that the Conglomerate is preparing for a massive clean-up tonight. There''s movement in all the hemispheres covered by the Russians. His gang leaders are all in town. Volkov is German Mob Boss (snatches the phone from Victoria): You son of a bitch! After what you and that traitor Sergey and my cunt of a stepmother pulled tonight, you better pray I don''t survive this night because if I do, I am going to gut you and Sergey alive. Anonymous: Victoria had the balls to do what you were supposed to do Otto. You were warring with the Russians and yet you were ying nice, waiting for Volkov to change his mind. German Mob Boss: I had everything under control! I was about to fix the mess that she started in the Conglomerate meeting! Anonymous: Victoria knew you were willing to sell her out just to save the German mob. She knew you were nning on delivering her to the Russians for the truce. German Mob Boss: She dragged us all in this situation. She was the one who started it all. So she had to suffer and not me or my brothers and the mob. Anonymous: If I were you, I will put all that energy into making sure that you and your little brothers are out of New York as soon as possible. Volkov is as coldblooded as he is a crazy man Otto. He will not let this night pass doing nothing. Otto ended the call, clenching his jaw. He came over to his brothers ages six and eight who are sleeping on the couch with their toys beside them. He glowered at Victoria who is now smoking from afar. Her hands are shaking, body trembling while waiting anxiously. ~ Safe House He sat on the bed beside Belle. He held her hand tightly, brushing her soft skin with his thumb. "I was gone for a while and here you are barely breathing." He whispered. He was dowsing a man with petrol after getting information from him when his phone rang. It was Niki and he wondered why the Boss was calling when he was supposed to be radio silent. He thought something very important must havee up. When he finally found out about what happened, he knew that it was as serious as it gets. He had to go back. It was about Belle -- his sunshine. Yuri recalls her beautiful face when she rushed to help him in the boathouse. She embraced him, held on to him tightly in front of everyone, in front of Volkov and Alexei. Belle did not hold back when she said she wants him to stay in the Mafia. Her words were like music to his ears. So this is how it feels like when someone cares for you? He thought to himself that time. Of course, it was short-lived. He wants to shoot himself in the head for being delusional. He knows he was foolish for even thinking that his Boss'' wife cares for him more than a man subordinate to her husband. Yuri knew his ce in her life and in the mafia that''s why he focused on his mission and his deal with the Boss. Even if he believes that he does not have a chance to be with her, leaving the mafia to finish his mission was his redemption-- his chance to prove that he is worth the trust bequeathed upon him by his Pa Vyachev. If he seeds, he will remain the third man in line from the big Boss. If he fails, he will permanently leave the mafia and forever live in shame. Yuri thought Belle must be so upset with him when he left. She must have thought that he lied; that he doesn''t care about her when in fact it''s the opposite. Yuri was and still madly in love with Belle. From the outside, Andrey is silently observing his younger brother. They both have been summoned by Niki and Alexei to do the most important job of all in the midst of the chaos happening at the moment. While the Volkov brothers are putting things in order back in New York, he and his brother have been tasked to stay in the safe house to protect, perhaps the most important person in the Mafia. Andrey thought if anything happens to this woman, Volkov might as damn well lose his sanity. He has seen how the worlds of the Boss and the Underboss revolve around Belle and he can''t even start to think of the shit that will go down if they lose her. His brother is smitten and was about to be stripped off of his title in the Mafia. The main reason why he flew back to the city he swore he would never go back to several years ago. My brother had the fucking balls to cross the Boss and gambled his own life just to get a taste of a woman he could never have. How fucking stupid is that? Somehow Yuri''s romantic suicide paid off as he was not banished from the mafia-- the one piece of the puzzle that doesn''t seem to fit. Andrey thought to himself. Regardless of his opinion about his brother''s indiscretion, his job now is to make sure the wife lives--- and his brother''s head remains attached to his body. ~ Belle''s POV "Nobozy leefs ze khouse vizout my purmission. Beby, opyen yor lyegs, I''m going to yeat yuhr poosy. Don''t mek me repeat myself. Yend of!" I say with all my conviction, impersonating Niki''s Russian ent-my most favorite ent in the world. He has been teasing me about my pouty lips whenever I was mad at him and his brother and so I thought I could tease him with his ent in return. "Do I really sound like that?" Niki said, wrinkling his eyebrows to a furrow. "Yeez. Espeecially ven Mr. Volkov is mad. Peepl olveys obey or zey die." I retorted. Alexei snickered and then winked at me yfully. Even the old man trimming Niki''s hair has a small smile on his face while listening to us. Apparently, this same man was Papa Vyachev''s and Papa Viktor''s barber. When he decided to retire from the busy life in New York, Niki gave him this ce and enough money to get by until the remaining days of his life. I felt my face heat up when I realized that he actually heard me. I really thought all this time he was deaf because of old age. When we first entered his little shop, the second he saw Niki and Alexei, his face lit up like remembering a dear old friend or a family. My husbands shook his hand but I never heard a single word from him so I assumed he could not hear a single word that we are saying. The old man took a small container of what looks like wax pomade, dug a finger in, rubbed his palms together and then carefully applied it on Niki''s hair. He flicked his dark brown hair towards the front of his face then flicked it to the back of Niki''s head. He then brushes the now shiny hair with his fingers and finishes with a fine-toothb for a sleek finish. Now my husband looks like a viin--a very hot and romantic viin. Alexei on the other hand looks like a man fresh from a magazine cover. Since his hair is wavier than his brother, it was tousled to the side creating volume for a more rugged look which I must say really suits his personality. Niki pulled me towards him, "Are you mocking me Arabe?" He asked yfully while smelling my hair and neck. "The ent is part of why I am so attracted to you and your brother, Niki." I answered as a matter of factly. "Come let''s take a picture." I took a picture of us using his phone but I had to do it twice because his hand was cupping my breast on the first shot. And then I scooted over towards Alexei and sat on hisp. He handed me his phone and I took the picture with his face nuzzling my neck, his hand crawling beneath my shirt squeezing my breast. I took pictures of us wherever we went and whenever possible. This is actually the first time that we are doing normal things like normal people in a rtionship. Just the three of us without bodyguards tailing or surrounding us, we strolled in the sidewalk, held hands,ughed and kissed without a care to the world. We went to church and heard mass, we ate sandwiches and soda in the park, we went to a small art gallery where paintings of a local artist were on disy. We even went grocery shopping using some of the coupons I cut from the magazine in the barbershop. We paid cash and not the usual numerous credit cards we had. I was so happy, I felt like a permanent smile was stered on my face. This was the honeymoon we''ve never had. And then we ate dinner in the kitchen of a small restaurant because the ce was already fully booked on a Friday night. Niki did not want to make a fuss about our presence so we came in through the back entrance. It was undeniably the best seat in the restaurant. It was a bit chaotic but at the same time I felt like we were inside a movie where the real action was taking ce. Plus, we got to taste literally almost all the European fusion food on their menu. Of course, being with the two had always been an adventure, so I wasn''t surprised when we got kicked out by an angry gay manager because he caught us shamelessly having sex in the cinema like teenagers. We ran out scampering to put our clothes on and went inside our car. Unfortunately for Niki, he wasn''t able to finish so his gpole was standing erect the whole time we were running for our lives, so to speak. I made him pull over a secluded spot and ordered him to pull back his seat to make room for me. Alexei and I made eye contact before he went out and smoked his cigar, rxing like a rock star on the hood of the car. He was able to finish touching me before we got caught by the manager so the smile of satisfaction is painted all over his face. His brother''s face however was a different story. I clutched Niki''s hard member, rubbing it gently and then slowly straddled him to fill me. I pped him on his face because I know for some wicked reason, he gets a certain kick of pleasure when I that. As a reaction, his hand instantly wrapped around my neck choking me. His dark green eyes turned even darker and I know I already got him. "You like that don''t you baby? Huh?" "I want more." I answered under my breath. "My dirty slut wants more." Niki said tightening his grip around my neck. This made me gasp for air, momentary panic seeped through me but then like a switch, it turned me on even more. I rode Niki gently at first, slowly bouncing up and down. My Obgyn would definitely not be happy about this. To be fair, I almost lost my lifest night, I know I deserve this. Niki''s manhood sliced through my inner walls as I sit and thrust myself deeper and harder. He groaned, fanning my ear with his breath every time I push myself to him. I am now in control of this man''s pleasure and I am savoring every second of it. He bites my neck, down to my breasts and my now perked nipples. He groped and nibbled every inch of me like an angry wolf. A moan escaped my mouth when I felt my flesh pulsate, feeling the pain of his teeth against my skin. I know he heard me but Niki did not stop, instead he devours me furiously. He is way into deep and I am not about to stop him from taking his pleasure. This time, I bounced on top of him faster and deeper. Niki''s head falls back, his eyes are closed but his hands are now around my hips, fingers dug on my skin. His member buried inside me as he takes control of my rhythm. I know he is going toe. ~ The three of us are now snuggling under the moonlight outside the cabin. We brought pillows, sheets and nket outside because we decided to camp out. I took the chance to ask Niki about what''s going on in New York and it did not go well. As usual, he just med himself for what happened to me. I know he also mes himself for the death of Yelena and what happenedst night somehow relived that guilt in my husband''s mind. He zoned out, his eyes turned dark so I held his face to look me in the eye. "Niki, what happened to mest night was not your fault. You cannot control what people think let alone do. What you can control is how you react to it. Be Volkov. Do what you always do best." Somehow the darkness in his eyes slowly dissipated, "You and Alexei saved and protected me and our babiesst night. You always did that. You saved me god knows how many times before." "Why do you love me? I don''t deserve you at all. Alexei-- Alexei does." There it is again. He has said this to me before. He thinks that he''s not worthy of my love. After all we have been through. "You and I deserve each other Niki. You love me like crazy and I love you back like crazy. Plus, the sex is amazing, I mean...." I looked at the Cadic now parked in the driveway with all the windows open. "I don''t think the Albanian will appreciate it if his car smelled like fresh sex when we return it to him." Alexei said while pissing a nt. And I''m pretty sure he heard his brother that''s why he took it upon himself to lighten up the mood. Alexei, you are amazing. Thank you. Niki''s face lit up over the thought of returning the car without having it washed first. Just to rub it in with Artan. My goodness. "I love you Arabe." Niki whispered. "We will keep you safe the best way we know. I''d rather not talk about the details unless-" "No, I don''t want to know. Just do what you need to do. Protect the family--our family." I said while running my palm on my protruding abdomen. I have long epted my life with the Russian Mafia Boss and Underboss. They do things their way in the underworld. I know the situation will get worse before it even gets better and I''m going to have their backs all throughout. "Just make sure at the end of each day, you bothe home to me alive. Promise me?" I continued. "I wille home alive and craving for you every day." Alexei answered. "I wille home alive and horny every day." Niki answered. Part of me wants to get mad at them for taking lightly my plead toe home alive but part of me also believes that they are a hundred percent serious abouting home craving and horny for me. To be continued... Chapter 35 Chapter 35 NEW YORK Artan: The Russians are annihting the Germans. New York underworld is in total chaos and I don''t see this one ending soon. Axel: It''s not good for business but it is what it is. As long as the Conglomerate is standing, we will let the problem solve itself. Artan: So, it was Victoria and Sergey Yvanislov all along. Axel: And someone from the Conglomerate. I will find out soon. Artan: Otto sent word to you to meet Volkov. Did the Russian wolf listen to you at all? Axel: (Snorts) Does he ever? Artan: (Shakes his head.) Axel: We have got to give it to the man. Just when everyone thought the Russians are no more when his old man died, the motherfucker kept his house together and proved to everyone he''s better than the old wolf. Artan: Story of our lives. Axel: Story of our lives. (Raised his ss for a toast) The two looked over the New York night skyline in silence. They are standing by as the mob war goes on between the Russians and the Germans. Axel: So, Volkov''s wife huh? Artan: (Smiles and drinks his scotch.) Axel: The woman has got some quick reflexes. I have learned the hard way not to startle her otherwise you''ll be seeing Estres flying around your thoughts in no time. (Recalls the time Belle kneed him on his crotch when he brought her gto by the pool in Colombia and then how his world turned in slow motion when he finally stood face to face with her. Her simrity with Yelena is uncanny and yet the difference is also undeniable.) Artan: You too? Axel: What do you mean me too? You mean you saw stars too? Artan: I saw very bright stars Axel. (The two shook their heads in disbelief.) Axel: So the two of you had something going on? Artan: She''s--- my specialdy. Axel: Special like Yelena? Content ? N?velDrama.Org. Artan: Yelena and I-it was a mistake. She was upset with Volkov one and two. It was just one drunken night. Axel: And yet you have Aria in your life. Artan: Aria was the best thing that ever happened to me. I was just thankful that Yely did not keep her from me. Axel: That''s the Yely I know. Artan: And the Yely you almost married. Axel: (snorts) Almost. Artan: You werepeting against blood, Axel. You already lost before you even started. Axel: (shakes his head and then downs his liquor) - Safe House Andrey: Did you finish your mission? Yuri: You can''t ask me questions like that. Andrey: You may be above me in the organization but I am still your brother. I am here to protect you. Yuri: Stop acting like you care it doesn''t suit you. Andrey: Yuri, you may find it hard to believe but I am here to make sure you get to live another day after going against the Boss and Alexei. Yuri: (snorts) I know why you are here Andrey. You are here because you know that if I get banished from the Mafia you are next in line. You will take my ce in the organization. Andrey: I am here because if you get banished from the Mafia every single motherfucker who wanted to kill you will be knocking on your door in no time. As soon as they find out you don''t have the wolf''s protection they wille for your head. Yuri: I know how to deal with the consequences of my actions Andrey, so stop with the act. Andrey: For a man whom Papa Vyachev calls his golden boy, you sure are one hell of a stupid asshole Yuri. You ruined your future in the Mafia and everything thates with it just because of a woman? Yuri: Tread carefully with your words when you speak of her. You know nothing. Andrey: Well then tell me brother. Tell me why are you still alive? Why were you not banished? Why did the Boss and the Underboss kept a blind eye even after what you have done? Yuri: Get out of my face Andrey. We have a job to do. Andrey: Hmm. Alright. (Walks away uneasily as if he wants to say something) (Awkward silence as Andrey gazes at Yuri) Yuri: What''s wrong with you? Andrey: In the boathouse, Madame Volkov was on yourp, caressing you. You werepping her skin and her breasts were pressed against your body. She was all over you and you were all over her like I''m watching a fucking romantic drama in the movies. All of these are happening right in front of her husband and the other husband, you know---our BOSSES. I just find it fascinating. Yuri: Are you done? Did you get it all out of your system? Can we do our fucking jobs now in peace? Andrey: Well-I''m just wondering---. Yuri: (Sighs in defeat) I''m done with you! (Gets inside the room where Belle is resting and shuts the door in front of Andrey) - Belle''s POV I covered Niki with the duvet we took from the room as he sleeps. The night seems to be so peaceful and quiet. Alexei and I are by his side as I check my second husband''s wound. He got shot when we were fleeing the scene where the Germans attacked us. And he doesn''t look like he''s bothered at all. "Dr. Marcus said you and your brother should be resting more so your wounds heal faster Alexei." I said as I snuggle up with him. I inched my nose on his neck and inhaled his scent. My goodness. This man smells absolutely sexy just like his brother. "I will rest when I am sure that you are safe and what happenedst night never happens again." "But Alexei, you and Niki said that the Russian Mafia has a lot of enemies." "I guess there''s no rest for the wicked." He retorted, satisfied of himself that he referenced a song. "You''re not wicked---maybe Niki is, but not you." I whispered to him. A giggle escaped my mouth and so as Alexei''s. "Princess, you''ve never seen my wicked side." "Hmm... perhaps you''re right. But no matter, I will still love you ''til the end of time." "Until the end of time?" "Yup! And until yours and your brother''s balls sag." "What?" He looks down at me all amused, his eyes are glittering. "Hehehehe." I giggled. He just doesn''t realize how serious I am. I will love them until we grow old. How old? False teeth falling off from the mouth old. Deaf old. I just could not see myself without them in my life, like ever. He pulled me tightly towards him and kissed me on my lips with a smile on his face. "Princess, you are one weird woman." Alexei and I talked and made out until we capped our night with sex beside Niki and the firece. Alexei took it slow and sensual knowing that I am in a delicate situation. He kissed me all over my body and made love to me, telling me under his breath that he loves me before the two of us fell asleep. The next morning I woke up to the smell of pancakes and coffee. I''m covered with the duvet and surrounded by a couple of soft fur nkets. When I came to my full senses however I realized that the fur surrounding me is real fur worn by real animals. Petrushka and Valkyre my wolf babies are here. Petrushka is resting peacefully on my stomach while Valkyre is now licking my face when he realized I am awake. This instantly made my morning. I heard Alexei call on Valkyre to stop waking me. The naughty wolf instantly ran towards Alexei while Petrushka just gazed at Alexei for a moment and then went back resting his head on my stomach. "Do you think he can hear or feel the babies?" Alexei asked while leaning his chiseled arm by the wall, he''s wearing his white tee and boxer shorts. "Hmm I think so. Animals have impable senses." Alexei went in my direction and knelt right next to me and kissed me on my lips. "Ya lyublyu tebya." He whispered. "Ya lyublyu tebya Alexei." "I had a stst night." He said naughtily. "You sure did." I can feel the heat crawling up my face as I recall that he came twicest night. First all over my breasts and second was all over my butt cheeks. Yes, it was messy but it was also incredibly hot and sexy. "Hahaha let''s go. Someone''s cooking breakfast." Said Alexei as he mumbled something to Petrushka so the other wolf removes himself from me. We walked barefoot towards the kitchen and found Niki busy cooking scrambled eggs. He is just wearing his boxers and nothing else. Oh my goodness. I said it before and I will say it again, the back is one of the sexiest parts of a man''s body. I went in his direction and pped his ass. "What''s up Boss? How are your eggs this morning?" A smile instantly formed on his face. "Are you gonna be this naughty for the next seven and a half months?" He said as he wraps his arms around me and kissed me on my lips. Alexei took over the cooking as Niki ces me on the counter to kiss me and my body. I just giggled as I can actually feel my body flush. "Niki you know how to cook eggs?" "I got a few tips and tricks from my father." "Really? Papa Vyachev knew how to cook?" "He likes making us breakfast when his time permits and he also hosted bbq parties." Said Alexei while he transfers the scrambled eggs on our tes. "Wow, the pa was very handsome, he was the Boss and he knows how to make bbq. I could have married Papa Vyachev instead." I said yfully. "Matushka will have to weigh in on that one." Alexei retorted. I just giggled at how weird our conversation took a turn. Niki however looked like thoughts are running on his head as if thinking about what I just said. "That would make you my stepmother?" Niki said. I almost choked on the scrambled eggs I''m eating. "Alexei this conversation stays between the three of us, also Niki, eww." "A man can dream." Niki continued as if imagining me as his stepmother. Alexei lets out augh seeing his brother fantasize. I feel like this is the perfect time to tell them about the one thing I''ve been meaning to say but then their cellphones rang at the same time. It could be about the mob war. So I opted to hold it in abeyance. - Niki and Alexei had to go back to the city as they have a meeting with Axel and Artan. I got dressed to go to the state fair in town but I had to wait for Andrey to arrive as he is the one in charge of my security while the mob war is going on. I understand why they have to be this thorough. Normally I can just take Ivan and Vasily and several of Alexei''s men with us and asionally Boris but the circumstances have changed. Mine and my babies'' lives are in danger. What Niki and Alexei have been telling me about being the target by their enemies came true the other night. That is why we can never be sure. I saw two ck SUVs pull over the driveway of the rest house. Andrey and some other men got out of the first one. I got in and then the man followed inside putting my seatbelt on. He sat beside me and for some weird reason inspected me from head to foot. I got conscious about it so I covered my legs while giving him the look. "Rx Madame, I will not make the same mistake as my brother." He said with such arrogance, the words rolled out of his mouth with ease. Andrey himself looked like he regretted saying it. The ride on the way to town was peaceful. At the state fair, I was able to buy some vegetables from the farmer''s market and some blueberries for Niki and strawberries for Alexei-- the usual toppings on their pancakes. There are a lot of people in the state fair mostly are kids and families. Somehow I feel at ease that''s why I was able to go to different stalls and buy food for myself and for my husbands. Someone had to make sure that there are no olives in any of the food I take, it''s time-consuming and a bit annoying, to be honest but Ipletely understand. I have to sit down because my legs are giving up on me again. Perhaps more so now because of the weight, I am gaining as my pregnancy progresses. It was bad before and it''s just going to get worse I reckon. - Yuri and Andrey (On a phone call, talking in Russian) Andrey: (answers his phone) Da''. Yuri: Get on your knees and massage her legs. Andrey: (Snorts and looks at the other SUV parked on the street) Yuri: Why are you smiling like that? Andrey: Oh, you''re serious? Yuri: I am not here to y some games Andrey. Andrey: Fucking shit! Are you trying to get me killed? Yuri: Listen to me, Belle has a condition with her legs. She can''t do long walks or that happens. Andrey: Well, have someone else do it because I am not touching this woman. Yuri: Ivan and Vasily do not have the clearance that you, me, Boris, and Dimitri have. Andrey: Shit. You know what brother? I am starting to think thating here for you was a bad idea. Yuri: Get the small green container from Vasily. It''s in the bag he is holding. Apply the contents of the container on her legs. Do it with just enough pressure from top to bottom. Not too strong because she bruises easily. Andrey: Great! So if she bruises I''ll have to exin it to Volkov and Alexei. Just great! Yuri: Do it now Andrey. - Belle''s POV Before we go back to the safe house, we made a final stop at a milkshake stall. It was ced inside a tumbler shaker so that no matter how you shake it, it will not spillover. The seller advertises it by pretending to be handing it over and immediately twisting it back as soon as you attempt to take it. It was cute for the kids but to me, he can actually skip the theatrics and hand me the damn milkshake. My patience is already thinning and so I asked him to give it to me as I was already annoyed. "Okay okay." The seller said as if giving up. "Yup, I would not do that if I were you." Andrey inserted as if expecting the man to pull back the milkshake again. I trusted the seller will let it go since there are other people lining up as well to order. I tried to take it from him again but then to my utter disappointment, he lets out this wicked smile and pulled back his hand once again. And that was thest straw. I climbed up the counter as I was so ready to grab it from him and seriously punch him in his annoying face. "Come here! I will deal with you myself!" Andrey grabbed me by my waist which made me so angry. "Let go Andrey! I will just teach this man a lesson! I said let go of me!" "Madame, the Bosses'' are back. They are waiting for you. Let''s go." "But my milkshake!" "Someone''s going to take care of it. Let''s go." He said as he carries me out of the scene. I looked at the man one more time and gave him the death re. "I''m going back! And I will find you! You hear me?" I heard Andrey giggle, breaking the silence inside the SUV as we head back to the safe house. "It''s not funny." I said looking at him intently. "Where''s my milkshake?" "It''s in the SUV tailing us Madame. I told you I''ll take care of it." "Hmm. Thank you." "You are wee. But please, don''t hunt down the poor man anymore?" There''s a few seconds of silence followed by a burst of giggles from Andrey, the other boys in the SUV, and myself. I know it was kind of ridiculous but that was a big deal to me. Food is a big deal to a pregnant woman and I am not about to let that man mess with me and my food. - When we arrived at the safe house, I instantly looked for Niki and Alexei as I was eager to tell them what I have been trying to say since this morning. Tomorrow is my birthday. I am turning 27 and I am going to celebrate it as Mrs. Volkov to both Niki and Alexei. I know them too well. They will have a surprise or prepare something for my birthday. It will be over the top. My n is to tell them not to do anything grand and definitely no surprises. Just a simple dinner in the mansion with them and our closest friends, considering the situation at the moment. I can hear some chatter, perhaps from television in one of the rooms. It is already slightly open so I just took a peek inside. Niki and Alexei are both sitting on the couch watching a video using an old movie projector. It''s a home video of Yelena. Alexei is talking in the background in the video as Yelena walks towards the study of the old house at the brownstone. She was smiling and giggling as she throws Alexei a flying kiss. She then went to Niki and sat on hisp, kissing her brother on the cheek at first and then on his lips. Chapter 36 Chapter 36 Belle''s POV I did not want to interrupt them and so I just walked out of the cabin. I know how important Yelena''s memories are to both Niki and Alexei. Perhaps they just need time alone with her especially with all the things going on in New York. They miss her. She''s Niki''s only blood-rted sibling and Alexei''s ex-fiance''. They think it was their fault that she died tragically, the reason why until now, they both could not move on. Yelena kissed her brother on his lips. And then Niki said this one particr word that registered in my mind so clearly because it was spoken with so much love and affection-- ''Malyshka''. When I saw how the word rolled out of Niki''s mouth like she''s his everything, I just looked away and went out of the cabin because I did not want to overthink things. We have been on this road before with Alexei. It almost ruined us to a point that I honestly believed that we could not recover from it. I will not make the same mistake again. There is nothing that I should be worried about. Whatever memories they are watching right now, I am sure it''s because they miss her and nothing more. I despise myself for even thinking these thoughts in my head. My heart skipped a beat when I felt someone touch my arm. "Hey." Said Niki, he looked me in the eye with a confused expression. "Are you okay?" "Uhm. Yes." "You flinched to my touch. What''s going on?" "You startled me Niki. You should be thankful I just flinched." I retorted in a futile attempt to lighten up the mood. "Are you sure?" Said Alexei while cupping my face with his palm. They are both looking at me worriedly. I had topose myself fast. "It''s just this man who sells milkshake from the state fair. He got me so riled up." "I see." Said Niki, signaling Andrey toe to him and I think I know why. Geez. "No, Niki. It was nothing really, I got my milkshake so no worries. How''s New York?" He looks at me so unconvinced, obviously noticing my attempt to change the topic. He gazes at Alexei who is now talking to Andrey from not too far. I did not even follow the way they looked at each other because I am afraid they might see through me. I just stared at the nket of pine trees covering the mountains in the background of theke. Fog is starting to crawl over the surface of the water as the sun starts to set. It is such a beautiful view but such an ominous atmosphere. Niki slowly pulled me to him. I just closed my eyes as he kisses my forehead. "Uhm, when do you think we can go back to the city?" "You want to go back home? You don''t like it here anymore?" He asks so gently like he''s talking to a little girl. "It''s beautiful here Niki, it''s just that-" Yelena has memories here and I don''t have a chance in hellpeting against her for yours and Alexei''s time even if she''s only just a memory. His phone vibrated and so I had the chance to think of an excuse, "Niki you should answer that. It must be important." "There''s nothing more important than you. Now tell me what do you want?" Andrey cleared his throat as if getting his Boss'' attention which Niki obviously did not appreciate. My husband was about to snap but I eased him down. "It''s okay Niki. Go. We will talkter." - Niki: This better be so fucking important. Content ? N?velDrama.Org. Andrey: The Germans want to make a deal. Niki: They tried to kill my wife. The only deal I am willing to take is their heads rolling one by one. Andrey: It''s Victoria who wants to talk and make a deal. Safe passage for the Otto brothers back to Germany in exchange for the information as to Sergey Yvanislov''s location. Niki: (Looks at Alexei) Alexei: The Germans are already on their knees. They have been cut off from the Conglomerate and no one in the underground world will dare lift a finger to help them. They are desperate, they know they have nowhere else to go. Andrey: Boss, Otto''s brothers are just kids. Niki: (Narrows his eyes on Andrey) And how old are my babies when they tried to kill them? Andrey: (Stayed silent.) Niki: That''s right. They are not even born when they wanted them dead. If Belle suffocated longer that night I would have lost her and my babies! Alexei: (Nods at Andrey to leave them.) What''s the n? I''ll handle it. Niki: Make that bitch speak and kill them all. Alexei: And the wife? (Looks in Belle''s direction) Niki: She wants to go home. Alexei: That''s fine. I don''t like leaving her here anyway. Niki: Matushka''s in the mansion you say? Alexei: Yes. Said she''ll take care of everything for tomorrow. - Belle''s POV It''s already dark when our entourage consisting of six armored SUVs took a short ride to where a helicopter is already waiting. It isrger than the others that we have. It''s shiny, jet ck and has the usual gold monogram V on it. Its interior is customized with white leather spacious seats, shiny wood, gold and green ents everywhere. It even smells so good in here. Niki is talking to someone from one of the SUVs while Alexei is making sure my seatbelt is safely buckled. "Alexei, to whom is Niki talking?" "One of the men in charge with a certain job." He answers as he sitsfortably back to his chair, crossing one leg to the other and pouring himself a drink. He looks at me through the ss as he sips the golden brown liquid. I can''t help but bite my lower lip and look away as I feel like I''m turning crimson. He always has this effect on me and it''s seriously driving me crazy. How could this man be this handsome and dangerous and yet so good for my health at the same time? No wonder Yelena was in love with him. He is perfect in so many ways. He chuckled and looked at me, his lips slightly pulled to the side. "You''re blushing." The arrogance of this man. "I am just hot." I meant feeling hot like literally heating from the chest up but my reply made his smirk grow wider. "No doubt about it." He retorted while taking another sip. I gave up because there is no winning against him. I just shook my head and adjusted my bum on my seat. Niki is on his phone and at the same time giving instructions to Andrey as he approaches us. The man is a workaholic and I admire him for that. He only gets to rest when the three of us are together in our own little bubble. And as his wife, I always make sure he gets to rest or do whatever he wants to do when he''s with me and his brother. I will always by their side, supporting them. Niki sat beside me and gestured Andrey to give the pilot the go signal. He puts down his phone and held my hand tightly as he knows I am not fond of heights. Alexei then ticked something from the tablet which darkened the window tint even more making it pretty much impossible to see outside. The cabin then switched to calming ambient lighting making our ride morefortable. We did not even have to wear headsets as the noise has been dramatically minimized. Wended on thewn of our property where Dmitri and Boris are already waiting. I instantly noticed Dimiboy''s wounded arm while Boris does not have a single scratch. I miss these two even just a few days of not seeing them. They were basically here taking charge whenever their Bosses are with me in the safe house. I asked Niki if I can ride with Dimi and Boris in the other golf cart instead since it''s just a few minutes'' ride to the mansion. I told my husband that I miss the two and so he agreed after signaling them about something I did not understand. I wanted to sit beside my pee buddy but the seat in front is basically cramped by the big man alone and so I sat behind him facing the other golf cart where Niki, Alexei, Andrey are at. Dmitri instantly held on to the bar on my side to basically make sure that I don''t fall off which is ridiculous by the way. "Why are you wearing sunsses at night?" I asked teasingly. I can see that he''s got a bruise down his right eye he doesn''t want to be seen. "Eh, I look cooler wearing these." He replied. "You look like MIB hunting for aliens." I retorted. "You''re inches away from me baby Madame, quit roasting me or else--" He said while trying to dodge my hair from hitting his face. I giggled, "Or else?" "I''m going to kiss you." Another giggle escaped my mouth, "You would not dare." I know he wouldn''t. Niki and Alexei are literally in front of us. "Dammit." Is the only retort he could muster. This made me burst intoughter, I got misty eyes. "Dmitri I have missed you and Boris." "I have missed you too baby Madame. It''s boring when you''re not here. No beauty in sight is no life at all." I just shook my head at him. "And I miss eating your hair like this." He added sarcastically. I''m trying my best to hold my hair together but for some reason, some strands wouldnd on his face and most of the time straight to his mouth. When we arrived in the mansion, I instantly hopped on Boris'' back so I can piggyback ride. I wrapped my arms around his neck and whispered to his ear, "Hey Boris, I have missed you." He just grumbles his reply as usual. I kissed him on his cheek which the men left in the mansion instantly took notice. Boris looked at them dismissively, making the men look the other away in fear. We entered the grand foyer and saw batches of red daisies and baby''s breath beautifully arranged. There are people busy making the flower arrangements and some are busy preparing for something big. Something really special. My goodness this is for my birthday tomorrow. I knew it. I should have told Niki and Alexei earlier not to have preparations like this. I want my birthday to be simple. Just dinner with the people that I love would be enough. Especially now that we are in the middle of a mob war. "I guess it''s going to be a very special day tomorrow Boris." I whispered. - The next morning, I woke up early to wee the day that I am 27 years old. I kissed Niki and Alexei on their lips and prayed. I prayed and thanked God for another year given me and for giving Niki, Alexei and these little Volkovs in my life. For some reason, I found myself not asking for more. I am sincerely content and happy. I tried calling my parents as I know they are awake at this time in Pwi but to no avail. I cannot reach them, perhaps they are busy. Just when I was going back to sleep I got a call from my best friend. When I answered, she sang happy birthday both in ournguage and in English. "Thank you A." "I know you''re up early. How''s the birthday girl in the middle of the craziness of the gangster world?" "I''m good. Still overprotected. You know how Niki and Alexei are." "I know but please next time watch what you are eating? You can''t have another allergic episode or your babies will go swimming outside your vagina on their own. And you know I am not even being funny here." "I know Mum." I said trying to lighten up the mood. We both know her words could not be truer. I have to be very careful now. I am just lucky I was able to survive that night. If we lose our baby, I don''t know what I will do. More so, I don''t know what will Niki do. I don''t even want to start guessing. "So, do you have any ns today?" She asked. "Well, I guess Niki and Alexei took care of the preparations since yesterday. Matushka is here as well. All I know is that we will hear masster at Kovrov." "So your back in your mansion?" "Justst night." "I see. Uhm B, here''s the thing. I thought you''re still kept somewhere because of what happened so I went out of town. And I don''t know if I cane back today." "Hmm. Out of town where? With whom? Omg. You have a boyfriend and you''re with him?" "Whow. Jumping to conclusions is not a sport B." "Don''t even A. What''s his name? Give me hisplete address. I''ll have someone look into him. Where are you? I''ll send men over." "Calm down Mary Arabe! What is wrong with you? Ultra Boss and Extra Boss'' craziness is rubbing on you severely." "Okay. I am calm." I wonder if I can have this number tracedter? Just to check if she''s telling the truth. "I''m here for a quick job. I get to be paid good for a night shift as a caregiver." "Hmm. How many times have you turned down Alexei''s job offers?" "B. If I work there, I will most probably be putting my nose where it does not belong because I care too much about you and I am the type of chick who does not back down especially when I am being tested by dicks." "Hmm. I guess you''re right. I don''t need a third parent in the mansion." I retorted yfully. "No, the point is whether you admit it or not, your Niki is a dick and don''t even try to defend Alexei because he is no lesser dick." "But I love those dicks." "Exactly. Too many dicks in the mansion. Not good for me." There''s a moment of silence after she said that and then we burst outughing. After the call, I went back to sleep to get more rest because I know this is going to be a long and busy day. - I woke up to Niki and Alexei looking at my face like creeps. Alexei brushes the back of his hand on my cheek while Niki is kissing me all over my face. A smile instantly formed on my face. "Hey." "Hey baby." "My princess." Niki took a tray of food from the table and ced it onto the bed. It has three bowls of oats topped with berries and toasts on the side. "Wow, brunch in bed. Thank you." The two are already wearing white shirts, the sleeves folded up just below their arms revealing their watches on the left wrist and their tattoos on their right forearms. They both smell so attractive -the scent that speaks romance, power and testosteronebined with a bit of roughness and lust. It is indeed a happy birthday to me. "What time is church?" I said while kissing Alexei''s veiny hand and his ring and then doing the same to Niki. "It''s fine, we have time princess. You have all morning to rest. Church is this afternoon." Alexei replied. As we eat our brunch, I realized that the two have not spoken of or hinted at talking about my birthday. I don''t understand why. I am sure they know that I saw the preparations in the whole mansionst night with the red daisies and all. But then again, these two have their own way of giving surprises. I decided to just give them a little nudge, perhaps they will give a hint about their n or something. "So, it is a special day today." I say, heat crawling up my face. "It is a special day." Niki answered stoically. Not the reaction I was expecting. If this is an act, he sure is a good actor. But why would he look passive-sad even? Alexei on the other hand remained quiet. He finished his bowl of oats, wiped his mouth with the napkin, and then told me to prepare for church after I shower. He specifically told me to wear either white or ck. Not the first choice I had in mind for my birthday but I obliged nevertheless. On our way to Kovrov, our entourage consisting of five ck SUVs ran like we were being chased or something. We made a few traffic stops and still we arrived at the Orthodox Christian Church in roughly under twenty minutes. The two are still in the same mood. And to be honest, I feel like we are going to a funeral rather than to a birthday mass. I remember what Amy said to me about jumping to conclusions and so I refrained from doing so. There are a lot of peopleing into the church, most if not all are wearing ck. Women and children going inside are holding red daisies in their hands. The Russian Mafia''s elders are present and almost everyone in town is here. Niki told us to go inside first as he was going to speak with some of the elders waiting for him outside the church. As we near the entrance my heart started to bang in my chest. That feeling of doubt and uncertainty is slowly creeping into my thoughts. What if I was wrong all this time? What if there is no surprise? What if Niki and Alexei truly did not remember my birthday that is why they did not even say a simple greeting this morning? What if this is all me being delusional? I got my answer almost immediately when the doors to the church were opened. I feel like I have been drenched in cold water as reality hits me in the face. This is not my birthday mass. We are at a church service for the dead. There are red daisies on the altar and a framed picture of a woman in front. The flowers they are arrangingst night at the mansion are not for me. The feast we are having tonight is not for my birthday. What Niki said about today as a special day is not for me but for his sister. This is why Niki looked so sad and Alexei was not himself this morning. Today is Yelena''s death anniversary. Chapter 37 Chapter 37 Belle''s POV I am just overreacting. It is not what I think it is. It was just me who assumed that the preparations were for me. It is my fault that I did not even ask. There''s no one else to me because I did this to myself. Sure it''s my birthday but I would have spared myself from this awful feeling in my heart if only I did not assume that today is my day. It''s Yelena''s death anniversary, perhaps the most important person in Niki''s and Alexei''s lives. Today was the day that they have lost her. Until now, they still me themselves for what happened to her. It would be so selfish of me to think about my birthday if the two most important persons in my life are grieving. And if in truth they forgot about my birthday, it''s okay. I should not feel bad about it. They have a lot of things going on for them. The least I can do is support them, right? I had to let Alexei have a moment with her. He''s been looking at her picture for a while now and I know I have to give him his space. I can''t even start to think of the pain of losing someone you love. I could not even imagine myself if Niki or Alexei are taken away from me like what happened to Matushka, Papa Vyachev and Papa Viktor. The service had been short but solemn. Niki was able to make a memorial for his sister which I did not understand anyway because it was in Russian. And to be honest, I did not want to hear any of it nor look at Niki as he did it. I resent myself for feeling like this. I remained in my seat as the pain in my abdomen started again. I had to make short silent breaths as I did not want Boris or Dmitri to notice me. I know they will tell their Bosses and I do not want to deprive them of this day. I don''t want toe between them and Yelena. "Madame? Are you okay?" Said Dmitri, sitting beside me and looking at my hand on my abdomen. He looks at me all puzzled and worried. Well so much for not being noticed. "Yes. Of course Dimi." "You look pale." He added. Wow, he even notices the color of my face even though I''m wearing light makeup. Do I really look this sickly? "I have not seen the sun for quite a while now so-" I replied. "Come, let''s get you outside." He said, holding my hand as he practically leaves me no choice but to go with him. Somehow, I felt a little better the moment the soft heat of the afternoon sun touched my face. There''s this sense of peace as the light peeks through the leaves of the trees surrounding the church. He walked me to the bench to sit down. I then took the chance to ask one of the questions that have been bugging my mind. "Dimi, what does Malyshka mean?" Dmitri looked over his shoulder to meet me in the eye as if wondering how or where I encountered the term. "It means baby, you know like baby girl." He answered. So malyshka means baby. The same word Niki calls me. - After the service, there was a gathering in the mansion. Niki and Alexei asked if they could leave after dinner. I inquired where to, but at the back of my mind, I already have an idea. They were going to Yelena and the Pa''s graves. I wanted toe with them to make them feel that I do understand and support them, but I felt like I wasn''t even wee. It was subtle and well-meaning and yet it was the in and simple truth. They want to be with her, without me. I offered them the best smile I could give at that moment. The same exact moment that I realized that indeed, they did not know or remember that today is also my birthday. My mind tells me that I should be more patient with them but my heart feels otherwise. It''s taking all the pain that I have been facing and I do not know until when it could withstand every single hit that''s I was deep in my thoughts when my phone rang. I was expecting Amy to check up on me, perhaps curious as to what my husbands have for me on my birthday. And I dread the moment I had to lie to her just so she won''t feel bad for me. But then, when I saw my phone, I had a sigh of relief. It''s an iing video call. I''m already in bed wearing my nightgown while the man on the other side still looks like he''s going on a business meeting. "Oh wow." He said. I already understood why he had this reaction. I instantly covered my breasts as they are shamelessly peeking through like they also want to greet him with glee. "Artan, don''t be a creep." He just chuckles and then ced his cigar to the side. He sat back and smoothly crossed his leg over the other. His slightly scruffy face really suits his personality. Seeing him, for some reason reminded me of his scent. Mix of cigar, scotch, and a hint of cologne. It''s weird but it feels like he''s just beside me at the moment. "Happy birthday baby." He said so longingly, his words felt like a warm embrace. "I sent something for you this morning. It''s at Dn''s house. I did not send it over at Volkov''s because he''s an asshole and there is a big chance it will not reach you." I almost burst out crying. Someone close to me, other than my best friend, actually remembers my birthday. I quickly ended the call because my stupid tears were threatening to fall. I do not want anyone to know that I am miserable on my own birthday-- that I feel alone even if I am surrounded by people who are dear to me. Knowing Artan however, he kept on ringing my phone and so I did not have a choice but to answer him. "What is wrong baby? Tell me?" "I''m-- I''m okay Artan." "You don''t sound okay. What happened? It''s your birthday you should be the happiest person in the world today. Why are you crying?" "It''s just my pregnancy hormones Artan. Really, I''m okay." "I''ming over. Volkov better have a good exnation for this." "No! Artan, listen I''m fine. Please please! I will see you tomorrow. Okay? At Dn''s. I will see you there. Please? Hello?" Oh my god, he ended the call. He''sing. Thank goodness Niki and Alexei are not here. The Russians and Albanians have finally patched things up between them and now this? The man has been so protective of me even when I''m already married to Niki and Alexei. He''s been there, albeit creepily, whenever I needed him even if that means facing perhaps one of the most formidable opponents of them all, Niki. He has never faltered in his resolve to protect me the best way he could given the circumstances. I am sure he will not let this one go. Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org. - Artan Artan: (Walking downstairs, slinging the gun on his back) Adnan, get me the key to my car. (His men stood up from their seats, wondering what''s going on) Adnan: Where are we going Boss? Artan: To the Volkov mansion, and I''m going alone. Adnan: I don''t think that''s a good idea. Artan: I did not ask for your opinion Adnan. (Adnan did not have a choice but to give the key to Artan. They all watched him sped away in his ck audi) Besian: It''s Volkov''s wife. He''s going to see her I am sure. Dardan: Well, there goes the truce between us and the Russians. Besian: Dammit! I do not understand why the Boss would not quit it. He can have any pussy he wants but still insists on Volkov''s wife. Dardan: (Taps Besian''s shoulder) My man, have you not been in love before? Besian: (Snorts) If that''s what love makes of a man, I''ll pass. The Boss is a very powerful man who owns a shipping empire, has huge stakes in the conglomerate and has the money we could all just wish for and yet he turns his back from all of that for a woman. Dardan: I think that Ms. Belle and our Boss have something going on. We''ve all seen it in Colombia. He had unreserved ess to her and she-well she allows the Boss to touch her. Only a blind person cannot see that they want each other. Besian: You might be right. The Cartel Boss, Axel De Alba was obviously eyeing her too but he was not as close to Volkov''s wife as our Boss. When they are together, they have their own world. Adnan: Whatever the Boss decides to do, we should be there for him. Let''s go. We''ll just keep our distance. - Belle''s POV My heart is racing as I hurriedly change clothes and go downstairs to find someone who can take me to the gate of our property. I would walk if I can but given the sporadic pain that I am feeling in my abdomen, I could not risk it. It''s almost a couple of hundred yards from the mansion to our gated entrance and running so I can go there first before Artan does, is definitely out of question. I have to take someone with me so as not to alert suspicion from our security details. I just found the right one when I went to the gazebo where the dinner is happening. She''s had a few drinks but I think she''s still able to drive me. It''s just a golf cart anyway. I told Matushka about the Artan situation. I did not tell her about my birthday because I know she will eventually tell her sons about it. My n is to not make a big fuss about them forgetting about my birthday anymore. I want to get over this and just tell them the truth when everything settles and there''s no mob war or Yelena''s death anniversary going on. "Oh princess, men don''t understand how women are when pregnant. They think that something is going on, especially if the man cares for you, you know just like Artan. You said when he called you he thought that there''s something wrong with you right?" Matushka said as she bends over and struggles to insert the key into the ignition. She''s been cursing in Russian as she grows impatient. "Matushka, please hurry. Artan will be here any moment now please." I said almost begging. I can just imagine the man driving his sports car just to get here as soon as he can or worse, he''s with his men to force their way inside. "Ah, I have an idea." She said as she dials her phone to call Andrey. Yuri''s brother drove us towards the gate without questions asked. This is the reason why Matushka was the best person to confide with, in this particr situation. If I did this on my own, I.V and half the men in the mansion would be tailing me like I was Cindere running away the moment the clock strikes midnight. We waited for a few minutes and then I saw headlights on the other side of the gate. I knew it was Artan. And it appears that he drove here without his bodyguards. My goodness, this man. "What happened to you baby?" He said as he reaches for my hand through the gap of the grills. "Artan, I told you I''m fine. I will meet you tomorrow at Dn''s okay?" "You''ve been crying. Tell me the truth now or I will crash through this fucking gate and ask Volkov myself." "Niki and Alexei are not here." "What do you mean? It''s your birthday, what else is more important than you?" He said, his eyebrows wrinkled and I can sense that the man is about to lose it. I swallowed the lump in my throat and held his hand tightly. "Artan please." "Just tell me the truth." He said, holding my chin up to face him. I looked over my shoulder to make sure that Matushka is far enough not to hear me. "Today is Yelena''s death anniversary. Niki and Alexei need some time to spend with her." Artan looked like he just recalled the significance of this day and then somehow figured out why I was crying. "And how about your birthday? Did they even remember?" I disconnected my gaze from him and just lightly shook my head. "They spent the whole day grieving a dead person but not celebrate the life of their own wife?" He continued and I can sense that the man is already livid. "Artan it''s not that simple." "Come with me." "What? No. I can''t. Niki and Alexei..." "Come with me or I go wherever those two are right now and I will show them how they fucked this day up for you." I did not have any choice. I know Artan will do exactly what he threatens to do. And I do not want them to fight again just because of this. I had to convince Matushka that I need to go with Artan for a little while. Thank goodness she agreed but warned that I shoulde home before the brothers do. - (Artan''s men observing from afar. They just saw Belle get inside Artan''s car.) Dardan: You know what? This is the first time that I wish I was wrong. Besian: We are all gonna die in the hands of the Russians. And I''m not gonna be proud of it because it wasn''t an unprovoked death. We just did this to ourselves. Adnan: Oh ye of little faith. The Boss knows what he is doing. - Belle''s POV Artan reached for my hand and held it firmly while his other hand is on the stirring wheel. "I''m not supposed to say this but Amylinda was nning a birthday surprise for you. We were supposed to do it this morning but she decided for tomorrow because there were things that needed to be arranged and we thought that you would want to spend this day celebrating with Volkov and Alexei." I knew that something was up with my best friend. She had a n all along. Not that I am surprised- Amy just being Amy. "Where are we going Artan?" "The Grand Hotel." "What are we going to do in a $60,000 a night hotel?" I know it''s expensive because I once looked up hotels online before I came here in New York as I reckon I would arrive from Pwi a day earlier than my move-in date in my apartment. "I have a room reservation." He answered letting out this small naughty smirk on his face. "Artan!" - Artan''s Men (They just saw Artan pull over in front of the hotel entrance. Their Boss gave the key to the valet as Artan holds Belle over the small of her back) Besian: (Took the gun and gave it to Dardan) Shoot me brother. Just kill me while my dignity is intact. Adnan: (Chuckles at Besian while dialing his phone to call someone) Dardan: Calm down. Don''t worry. They will just dine. Besian: Of course-- of course--. They will just eat. There''s nothing to worry about. Adnan: (Ends the call) I just checked with Lena. The Boss had a penthouse suite reservation already paid for. (Absolute silence filled the car) - Belle''s POV "We are not supposed to be seen checking in a hotel in the middle of the night Artan." "We won''t take long. I''ll finish fast." He retorted. I crossed my arms and refused to get inside the elevator as I am starting to get annoyed. "I''m kidding. I have something that I am sure will make your birthday a whole lot better. We won''t take long. Trust me on this?" He continued. I obliged because truth be told, I trust Artan with my life. I know he won''t do anything to harm me. The elevator went straight up to the suite which covers the whole floor of the penthouse. Everything is shiny in gold, marble and ss. The whole ce is very spacious and I feel like it can house a whole football team in here. My goodness. Artan held my hand as we approach the biggest room where I can hear chatter from a television. When we were already by the door, he gestured that I should go in first. As I step inside, I saw my parents sitting in bed and it looks like they were not expecting to see me as well. I wasn''t able to contain my emotion. I feel like a little girl who came back home after she ran away because she was being rebellious and so eager to see the world on her own despite her parents'' disapproval and in the end, she suffered all the heartbreak that her parents have warned her about. I ran to my mother and cried on herp. I did not know what else to say. She brushes my hair gently and told me that it''s going to be okay. "Arabe." Said my father, gesturing that I sit beside him on the other side of the bed. "Papa." I said, trying so hard to act straight. "Wipe your tears and tell me why are you crying. Did Niki do this to you?" "No Papa. I just missed you and mama, is all. I was trying to call you since this morning but I cannot reach you." "Our flight got dyed in Japan because of the weather. We were supposed to arrive earlier. We just got here two hours ago." Said my mother, her voice is like music to my ears. It''s like a luby that is very sweet and gentle. - We had to leave to let my parents rest, especially my father who is suffering from a heart ailment, from their long trip from Pwi. In the elevator on the way down I could not thank Artan enough for facilitating and taking care of my parents. Apparently, the man offered to send his private ne to fetch my parents in Pwi but my father refused, so instead he took care of their first-ss tickets including that of my cousin Devon to New York. Not to mention their stay in this hotel for the nexting days or weeks. I kind of have an idea how Artan got involved in this in the first ce. I need to call Amy first thing in the morning. On the way out of the elevator, a woman working in the Hotel handed Artan a big white box wrapped in a red ribbon. He then took me to a small garden restaurant within the hotel where there is a table for two waiting for us. When I opened the box, it was filled with the most beautiful bunch of short-stemmed red roses inside and a chocte cake in the middle sprinkled with so many almond chips and a single white candle for me to blow. "Thank you Artan. This is so beautiful and I''m sure delicious too!" He lit up the candle with his lighter and covered it with his hands because the breeze was slightly blowing. He then started singing happy birthday in hisnguage albeit almost whispering which I find really endearing and cute. "Come on, blow your candle before it turns 12 o''clock." It''s a minute to twelve and then it''s not going to be my birthday anymore. So I closed my eyes and just wished for happiness and then blew the candle gently. To be continued... Chapter 38 Chapter 38 Belle''s POV "Artan, can you take this with you and give it to Aria in the morning? I am sure she will love it." I asked, referring to the pretty chocte cake the man had for my birthday. "Sure, but you know what she''s going to like more?" He said with a naughty smile on his face. "This." He continued as he wipes the white frosting of the chocte cake on top of my nose. "Seriously!? Omg. What''s that?" I said, pointing to his side. For a second he looked over his shoulder which gave me the chance to get back at him. The icing however, justnded on his lips. "That was a good one." He said with a smile on his face. I just giggled. I was about to wipe my nose with the napkin but the man insisted that he will do it. I tried so hard not to make eye contact because our proximity will make it really awkward. "Baby." He said as he continues stroking my nose gently. "Hmm?" "Hasn''t it urred to you that you might have chosen the wrong Drug Lord?" He asked with a hint of naughtiness and at the same time, I felt like it was a question truly from his heart. I smack him with the napkin that I am holding and then wiped the icing off of his lips. The man just chuckles in response. "The night at the restaurant, I could swear you were kind of --- you know, feeling some way because I was with thatdy." He said, referring to that incident in the restaurant before we were attacked by the Germans. I kind of had a feeling that my actions that night might be interpreted as such by Artan but really, my main concern was him drinking too much again. Of course, I was curious as well. "Oh, so you''re dating her?" "Dating is not for a man like me. The life that I was born into does have some downsides, I am sure you are familiar with. " He replied. "Niki once told me that he does not date. That it''s not really his thing. I thought it justes with being a Boss. I mean, you get what or who you want with no questions asked." "I have learned the hardest way that a Boss does not get what or who he wants all the time." He retorted. I know what he is implying. "Artan." "All I''m saying is, we can''t just let ourselves fall into the trap of thinking that we are living a normal life. Bringing someone in our lives, especially if that someone is not from our world could potentially be the biggest mistake we could ever make." I somehow understand him, this was the reason why Niki and I broke upst time. He was afraid that I might end up like his sister. He thought that it was a mistake that he dragged me into his world. He''s thinking that something might happen to me because of him that is why he chose to let me go. "Then why did you still want me if you think that you could put me in danger? I was a normal person living a normal life before I met Niki, Alexei, and you." I asked out of curiosity. He stood up from my side and went back to his seat across the table. "Because the heart does not listen to reason." The heart does not listen to reason. Whomever this man ends up with someday must be very lucky. Yes, he ticks all the boxes of being dangerous and controlling sprinkled with craziness and stubbornness on top, but he is also a man who can make a woman fall head over heels for him because of his heart. Just like my Niki and Alexei. A song is ying in the background as Artan drives us back to the mansion. It''s a slowed-down version of a popr old song and it actually sounds obsessive and kind of stalker-ish. I just smiled because it really jives with the man''s personality. He gently brushes his conglomerate ring that I''m wearing while holding my hand. He''s looking at the rearview and the side mirrors and I think that he noticed something from behind. We then slowly pulled over. "What''s wrong Artan?" "Hold on, baby." He said. He stepped out of the car and sat on the side of the hood. He then crossed his arms over the other. An SUV from the back pulled over in front of us and out came his men. I recognize them all too well. That''s Dardan, Artan''s right-hand man, Adnan and Besian who seems to be the youngest of the three. Artan signals them toe to him with a flick of his fingers. Uh-oh. Looks like some Albanian men are in trouble. It appears that they are following us without Artan''s consent. - Artan: The fuck are you three doing? Why are you so spent in my personal life? Dardan: We just want to make sure you''re okay Boss. Adnan: Whatever it is that you decide to do with Ms. Belle, we have your back. Artan: You make it sound like I''m a fucking psycho Adnan. Besian: Uhm, Boss. Respectfully. You stayed in the hotel with Volkov''s wife for more than four hours. Spending that amount of time in a ce where you could have privacy with the most untouchable woman in the underworld--- especially if you''re not from the Russian Mafia and you have some kind of a past with her--- could cost you your life. That to me is a telltale sign of--- (halts as Dardan nudges him) Artan: We will continue this conversation back home since you have a lot to say Besian. - Belle''s POV "They are just looking after you Artan. They care for you that''s why." "Those three are just nosey. They have this penchant to know everything that''s happening about me. They don''t observe boundaries." He replied. "And I think that''s a good thing. Since you don''t have a wife yet, think of them as your mob wife divided into three minus the marriage and the sex." His eyebrows wrinkled while ncing at me, "That''s disgusting baby." I just giggled at the silliness of our conversation. "Going back to my question a while ago, were you with that woman that night?" He smiled from ear to ear, looking so content of himself. "We''re still talking about that?" "I''m just curious, okay?" I added, trying to hide my embarrassment. "She''s an escort. Axel wanted somedypanion that night." "Hmm. I see. Axel is a bad influence for you Artan. Did you know that he kissed me when Niki wasn''t looking at the Conglomerate meeting? That man is bad news I''m telling you." I said jokingly. "You remind him of someone close to his heart." Replied Artan. Regret painted on his face the moment the words rolled out of his mouth. Suddenly, the night took a sour turn. I had a strong feeling about whom Artan is referring to. For a moment I wanted to let it go but there''s this unsettling feeling that I could not just let pass. "You mean, I remind him of Yelena?" "Baby." "Who''s Yelena to Axel?" "There are things about Yelena that I am in no position to tell." He replied. Fine. If he does not want to tell me about Yelena''s apparent connection with Axel I won''t insist. I have Axel''s number, I can ask him myself anytime. "How about you Artan? What''s your connection with Yelena? I''m pretty sure you are in the position to tell me about it right?" "Babe." "You may or may not tell me, it''s up to you. I am still going to find out sooner thanter. It''s just a matter of time really. So what''s it going to be?" The man clenched his jaw, his Adam''s apple moved as he knows that he has no other choice but to tell me the truth. - The ride on our way back to the mansion was painfully silent--- just the way I wanted it. After what Artan told me about him and Yelena tonight, my view of my rtionship with him and everyone around me who had a connection with her has changed. I doubt if these people truly care for me or they are just simply seeing Yelena in me. Aria is Yelena and Artan''s daughter. The little girl is not only Niki''s goddaughter but she''s also his niece. That is why every time Ariaes close to him, the Russian Mafia Boss who is virtually coldhearted and indifferent to other people suddenly bes warm and gentle. She is his beloved sister''s child. She is blood. This is also the reason why at the Conglomerate meeting, when I really thought that the Albanian Mob transferred allegiance to the Cabana Cartel, Aria was wearing the Volkov colors. Artan said that Aria will always be with the Russian Mafia''s side. "Why did Niki let Aria be with you?" I asked, breaking the ice. "She''s my daughter. She''s a Bogdani as much as she''s a Volkov. And Yelena made sure that Aria stays with me even before she died." He answered, looking at the road straight ahead. I did not inquire further as I am already too exhausted and to be honest I feel so betrayed. "Baby.." "Please stop Artan. Just take me home. I am tired." He tried to hold my hand but I did not let him. "I just don''t want you to think that I did this on purpose. I would never hurt you. Volkov asked me to give him time to tell you the truth about Yelena." So they are all in on this? They will keep the truth from me until my husband gathers enough courage to tell me about Yelena? Is that it? This made me feel even more upset about the whole situation. I just don''t get why they had to do this. I did not speak a single word until we arrived in the mansion. I did not wait for him to open the car door for me. I got out and pulled his conglomerate ring from my finger. "From now on, I do not want to see you or Aria. I will just hurt the little girl every time we see each other because she might be associating me as her mother. Let us not keep her hopes up and betray her trust, like what you and everyone around me just did." "Baby, that is not fair!" Artan eximed. "Stop calling me baby because I am not your baby. I am not Yelena." "Listen, Yelena and I..." I did not let him finish because I have heard enough to infer that he cares for me because I remind him of Yelena and nothing more. "Thank you for everything that you did for my birthday. I will wire you the money for the cost of my parents'' ne tickets and the hotel amodation." I ced the ring on the hood of his car because the man would not ept it. I got inside the mansion without looking back. I just heard the engine of his sports car roar as he sped away. My tears are threatening to fall so I halted and took a deep breath. I did not realize how painful it is to say goodbye to Artan until now. It''s like a piece of my heart has been ripped away. I always thought that I could count on him, to be honest with me, but just the same he broke my heart. - The party for Yelena is over. Niki and Alexei are already home when I arrived and when I asked Dimitri where his Bosses are, he looked at me like I did something wrong like I was in trouble. The two are in the garage which is actually a building beside the mansion where they keep their cars and bikes. I went inside and saw the two working on the engine of a vintage car. Niki is wearing denim pants without a shirt on while his brother who just got out from the driver''s seat is wearing ripped jeans and a shirt. They look sweaty and it seems like they have been here for a while. When they noticed me, they both just went on with what they are doing. I do not n on telling them about my birthday anymore. I mean, at this point I doubt if they even care at all. I will just let this pass as I have a lot more important things on my te right now. Like why did they keep the truth about Yelena from me. "Did you have fun with your date with the Albanian?" Asked Alexei looking at me momentarily, his arms are on the side of the hood of the car. "I did not go on a date with Artan. He just needed to show me something. I thought it won''t take long." I replied. What I really meant to say is that Artan madest-minute arrangements so he could salvage my awful day-a thing that you and your brother were supposed to do for your wife''s birthday. "You went to a hotel with a man who is obsessed with you and stayed there for hours right under our noses. You did it while all of us here in the mansion are remembering my sister''s death anniversary. You made us look like fools in front of our people. Tell me what am I missing here, Belle?" My birthday! You missed my Birthday Niki! Everyone remembered my birthday except you and your brother and the rest of the Russian Mafia! I happen to have two husbands but no one actually cared! I wanted to scream and tell them what my heart really feels but I chose not to. I know that they have the right to be mad at me for leaving in the middle of the night with Artan, the man who almost ruined our All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. rtionship before. "We will talk about this tomorrow. In fact, we have a lot of things to talk about tomorrow. But it''ste and we are all tired." I said, turning my back on them as I did not want us to have this conversation when we all had a long day. We will just end up saying hurtful things we don''t actually mean. "Does our marriage mean anything to you Belle?" Niki asked, but it sounded more like a statement than a question. "We asked you for one thing today. Be with us as we go through this. Just one day Belle. We needed you, but you bailed on us and went looking for attention elsewhere. You went running to the arms of another man." Niki''s words were like knives stabbing through my heart repeatedly. How can they say this to me when all I ever did was love them? Our marriage means everything to me. They both mean the world to me but still they manage to hurt me over and over again. It took a lot not to respond to what they are using me of doing. I just chose to walk away from them. I had to wipe my tears before I entered the mansion because I did not want their men to see me like this, out of shame. Shame because they are looking at me like I did a mortal sin-- the sin of momentarily thinking about my happiness on my birthday. On my way to the master bedroom, I saw Matushka carrying Yelena''s framed picture, the one disyed in the church during the service. She came inside one of the rooms reserved for family members. I know she does not stay in that room because she preferred the guest bedroom downstairs. Momentster she came out without the framed picture, shut the door, and took the stairs instead of the elevator. Out of curiosity, I decided to see what''s inside the room. The moment I opened the door, turned on the lights, and saw the whole room, my heart began to slowly break into pieces. It is Yelena''s room. All of her stuff from the old house has been transferred here and arranged as if she''s still alive as if she''s still here. In one corner are her pictures with Niki and Alexei. Her vanity mirror with her make-up, pieces of jewelry, and perfume. Her bed and pillows and red daisies in almost all of the corners of the room. A wedding gown is disyed in one corner that looks disturbingly familiar. My heart gradually broke as I step closer and closer to it. I gently touched the veil as the realization dawns on me. This is the wedding gown I wore in Colombia. The one I walked down to marry Alexei. This was Yelena''s wedding gown. She was supposed to wear this on her wedding day with Alexei. A wedding that never happened because she passed away. It''s like fate is pointing me towards finding out more about Yelena when I saw an old digital camera on top of one of the tables next to the bed. It contained videos of their travels and just some random stuff. One thing I have noticed about the videos is that they are mostly of Yelena and Niki. Thest video however contained something that would confirm one of the suspicions I have been trying to ignore. It was a video of them on a vacation. At first, it was focused on everyone else in the yacht and some people swimming in the water but as the video focused on Yelena going towards Niki and sitting on hisp, my heart started to bang in my chest. The camera slowly slipped through my hand and to the floor when I finally saw the moment when Yelena holds Niki''s face, kissed him on his lips and told him the only term I am most familiar with, in the Russiannguage. Ya lyubyu tebya, Niki. The video I saw they were watching back at the rest-house makes perfect sense now. Niki and Yelena were in a romantic rtionship. And she was to wed Alexei as well. They were sharing her just like they are sharing me. I wasn''t the only one in Niki and Alexei''s lives. All this time, I have been living her life. Yelena''s life. Niki saw Yelena the first time we met and not me. He fell in love with me because I resemble his deceased lover. And I was just a convenient recement for her. My suspicions about my and Alexei''s rtionship have now been confirmed. The man has not moved on from her death just like his brother. The signs that I have been ignoring since the beginning of my rtionship with Niki and Alexei and everyone from the Russian Mafia came rushing back to me,pletely knocking me off of my pathetic and delusional self. Artan''s revtion about his connection with Yelena is like a piece of this whole grand puzzle. Niki, Alexei and everyone from the Russian Mafia are still grieving Yelena and I just happen to fill that void in their hearts. Chapter 39 Chapter 39 Belle''s POV I''m lying in bed while Alexei is on the other side obviously distancing himself from me. Niki just got out of the shower, now changing to his nightclothes inside our closet. I then felt Alexei got up from the bed while his brother did not even bother looking at my direction. I just heard a click and then I''m all alone in the room. I did not even have to guess because I know in my heart that they went to Yelena''s room. They did not want to be with me. They are so convinced that I cheated on them and made them look like fools in front of their men because I went with Artan on the day that they are remembering her death anniversary-- on the day of my birthday. I did not go to sleep yet because I waited for them to go to bed thinking that perhaps emotions have subsided and I could ask them the truth about Yelena before I even jump to conclusion and make a decision that could change our lives. I want to give this rtionship a chance, no matter how minuscule it might be. We have been through so much and most importantly we have twins to think of. My happiness could go second or evenst, I don''t care, just as long as I could make sure I put the welfare of my babies first. I do not want them to grow up thinking that their mother did not fight for them and our family. I want to hold on for as long as I can. No matter how painful it is for me to do this. Iy on my back feeling the emptiness of our bed and the vastness of our room. I have never felt so alone until now. I have never felt like a stranger in this mansion until now. Suddenly, I do not feel like I am home anymore. I went to our closet to look for my luggage because it contains the things that I can call my own. I undressed and changed into the clothes I brought from Pwi. I then removed every single piece of jewelry I have on my body; the ruby and diamond earrings, the diamond bracelet, the engagement rings, and our wedding rings. I had to wipe my tears as I ce them inside a box. I know at this point, I am holding on to a very thin thread in our rtionship and quite honestly, I can already see the end. - I woke up the next day around lunch -- still alone in our room except for the wolves on my feet. I took a cold shower to somehow remove the puffiness of my eyes because I cried myself to sleepst night. It felt like one of the longest nights of my life. It was exhausting both physically and mentally and it wasn''t helping my pregnancy at all. I did not expect to see Niki and Alexei still in the mansion. They are in the dining hall ready for lunch. Niki is still in his house clothes and his robe while Alexei is wearing a casual tee and pants. I did not want to be with them because I know that we are all in no mood to talk to each other. However, Matushka Irene has already noticed me. She waves at me with a smile on her face signaling that I join them. I almost drag my feet going towards the dining hall. I took as much time as I can because I am really in no mood for my husbands right now. It is the maid who ced the food on my te and not Niki or Alexei, which I did not mind. I do not fancy being treated like a baby anyway. I just signal her to stop as I will be the one to get my own food which I realized was a mistake because Niki instantly noticed my hand without the rings. "You checked in a hotel with the Albanianst night and now you''re not wearing our wedding ring. That was fast." Said Niki as he folds the newspaper in front of him. I did not even want to respond so I just removed the napkin from myp and ced it on my table and excused myself. The moment I stood up from my seat, Alexei with a firm voice eximed, "Sit down and eat your food Belle. Stop thinking only about yourself and start acting like you have responsibilities in this family." I halted and did not know what to say or do. This is the first time that I have been talked down like this by Alexei and Niki. Even Matushka looks so surprised by how her sons are treating me. All because I went with Artan on the day that it was supposed to be for Yna, their most beloved. Everyone on the table is now looking at me in absolute silence. I did not want to make a scene so I swallowed the lump in my throat as I sit back and not say a single word. Niki then signaled the maid to continue putting food on my te and ced the small tter with my prenatal vitamins on the side. Matushka spoke to the two in Russian and I can sense that she is arguing with them. This is the first time that I have seen Niki and Alexei reason to Matushka ever. They usually just listen to her as she scolds them and still do whatever they want, but never talk back. "Matushka, it''s okay. I will finish my lunch and take my vitamins." I thought that would somehow pacify the situation but then I notice that one of Niki''s men whispered to his ear about something as if it''s an urgent matter. I instantly got my answer when Amy suddenly appeared holding a cake and balloons with her. She had a beaming smile on her face as she sings happy birthday, oblivious of the tension simmering in the air. And to make matters worse, my parents came with her bearing presents. I feel like I wanted to puke because of how bad my day has quickly turned. The people in the mansion looked at me like I grew a horn as the realization hit them. It was my birthday yesterday and not one person in the Russian Mafia remembered or even cared. Matushka got teary eyed, covering her mouth with her hand as she looks at me. I lightly shook my head and mouthed it''s okay. Alexei instantly stood from his seat and went to my side while Niki attempted to hold my hand. "Not now please, my parents are here." I said, standing up from my seat to get Ma and Pa. "Surprise! Bted Happy Birthday B!" Amy said gleefully and kissing me on my cheek. "You probably had so many candles to blow yesterday but this one is equally special because I baked it myself." "Thank you A. What a surprise." "Uh, you look weird. What''s up?" She looks at me and then my husbands. Her eyebrows wrinkled obviously noticing how dumb stricken the rest of the boys are. "Oh my god! Tell me you knew that it was her birthday yesterday? Tell me you remembered her 27th birthday?!" Amy is already about to explode so I had to do something lest she runs amok and make a scene in front of my parents. "That is such a silly question A." I quickly answered, grabbing her towards the table. "Oh thank heavens! That would be awful if you and Alexei forgot her birthday right? Can you imagine? A husband forgetting his wife''s birthday? That''s probably one of the worst things ever! It''s unforgivable." She said with such spite I am not even sure if she''s actually innocent or just ying innocent. - "Papa, I did not know you were in New York. I would have sent the ne for you and Mama." Said Niki. "There is no need Niki. Mr. Bogdani was generous enough to arrange our travel. He and Amylinda nned this surprise for Arabe." Replied my father. "We would not miss Ara''s birthday for anything. We wereing to the US sans any offer from her friends anyway." Inserted my mother, speaking with her usual soft voice. Niki clenched his jaw every time my parents mention the Albanian Mob Boss, especially when he knew that Artan took charge of the things that they were supposed to do. "So, how was your celebration yesterday? I am sure you had a huge party for my best friend. Right Niki? Alexei?" Asked Amy, this time though her questions are more probing and definitely malicious. Yep. She knows. She knows the whole truth and this is her punishing the two for what they did. I looked at her sternly hoping she would stop but she was already on fire. She probably figured it out herself or Artan told her about it, either way, I have to stop her before things go out of control. Niki was speechless --- and his brother more so. I can see from the corner of my eye that they are still looking at me intently. The awkward silence is lingering in the air so I had to say something. "We had a party yesterday A." I answered, which is technically true because we had a party although it wasn''t for me. "Aww look around, the whole mansion is still brimming with red daisies. B''s favorite! I wish I was here. FYI to everyone, we did not celebrate B''s birthday yesterday because we thought that she would not be home and she''d be celebrating with you guys and if she were home the General and the family were stranded in Japan." She continued. At this point, I can''t even decipher the expression on the faces of Dimitri, Andrey, Boris, Matushka Irene, most especially Niki and Alexei. They look like they have been drenched in cold water. The disapproving look on their faces when I went hometest night now turned into remorse. This is exactly why I did not want them to know about my birthday anymore. I do not want them to feel bad about missing my birthday. "Ara?" "Your mother was asking you something Arabe." Said my father. "Are you okay B?" Amy asked looking at me worriedly. Even my parents are looking at me with puzzled look on their faces. "Uh, yah. What was your question ma?" "I was asking if you attended mass?" "Yes ma. We went to church in the afternoon." I answered without looking at her eyes. I swear my heart cannot take it anymore if I lie one more time to my parents. Truth is, I do not want my parents to know that Niki and Alexei actually forgot about my birthday because of shame. I am ashamed of myself. Ashamed that I am in a rtionship grounded upon a lie. - After our small reunion, my parents had to leave because my father was not feeling well. Niki offered my parents to stay in the mansion, thankfully my father declined, saying that they have already settled in the hotel. Staying in the mansion is not a good idea because I do not want them to witness how miserable I am right now. Devon arrived only to fetch my parents. He and my husbands are not necessarily in good terms so I understand his refusal to stay longer in the mansion. The moment he saw me, he instantly knew that something was going on. I told him it wasn''t the right time to talk. He said they will be staying in New York for quite a while because my father has to see a cardiologist. Niki and Alexei however insisted on taking my parents back to the hotel. I did not even care or think about it because my mind is already set on the decision I have to make tonight. Before I went back inside the mansion, Andrey came up to me and handed me an envelope wrapped in gold ribbon. "Madame, I am sorry but I forgot to give this to youst night. My brother left this for you before he left. It went over my head, I''m really sorry." He said with his thick Russian ent sounding sincerely apologetic. "It''s fine Andrey. Thank you. Is Yuri okay?" "He''s okay. Pardon my cursing but my brother is a tough motherfucker." "Do you get to see him?" I asked while I open the envelope. "Sure. He''s just around, being an ass to his brother." Andrey replied yfully. The envelope has a piece of cream-colored stationery inside with words written in calligraphy. It looks like a hall pass but way cooler. Unlimited ess to beard. No brushing of the birthday girl''s hair required. His message instantly put a smile on my face -- my first ever genuine smile for the day. I remember that time I asked to brush his beard and in return he wanted me to brush my hair first. It was embarrassing, to say the least but it was one of our most memorable moments. Turn to the other side. When I flipped the paper over I saw the wire transfer receipt to St. Mary''s School for abandoned special children in the amount of $100,000.00 from Yuri''s personal ount. Oh my goodness. This is honestly one of the best gifts I have ever received. This amount of money will go a very long way for the care and education of our kids at St. Mary''s. I asked Andrey if I can talk to his brother. He thought of it for several seconds before the man gave in. "Hello. Yuri?" It took him a while but when he finally answered I felt like I wanted to burst out crying. Perhaps deep in my heart I know I was the reason why he is not in the Mafia anymore. "Belle." He said, his voice feels like he''s just behind me, gently calling my name. "Thank you for this Yuri! You really know your way to my heart." I myself was taken aback by the words that rolled out of my mouth. I just bit my lower lip as I did not know what to say next. "I must admit, I wasn''t sure if you''re going to like the beard ess." He replied lightheartedly, stirring clear of the awkwardness that was about to happen. "I do. Your beard is quite phenomenal." I heard him soft chuckle the moment I said thest word. Even Andrey who is listening had a smirk on his face. "I hope you''re okay and you''re safe Yuri." "I am from the Volkov Mafia. I should be fine." He paused for a few moments before speaking again, "Belle, about what happened in the boathouse- " "No. You can say whatever you want to say to me in person. I want to see you before I - " "Before you-what?" Before I go back home to Pwi, is what I want say. I just do not trust him enough to keep this to himself if I tell him about it. I know that no matter what, his loyalty will remain with the Russian Mafia, and Niki and Alexei are the Russian Mafia. "Before Ipletely not forgive you." I continued. "Belle-" I ended the call and handed the phone back to Andrey so as not to give him the chance to deny my request. - Andrey: (Turns around while looking at a silhouette by the window in the mansion.) Please tell me you''re not going to see her? - Niki on the phone with Dimitri. They are in the SUV tailing the car where Belle''s parents are riding. Niki: Da''. Dimitri: You are right Boss, Madame''s belongings are already packed. She''s prepared to leave. Niki: (Clenches his jaw) Take her things and keep them where she cannot find them. Tell everyone not to let her leave. If you see the Albaniane to the mansion, shoot at sight. Whatever you do, do not take your eyes off of her until I get home. Alexei and I just need to fix something with the General. - Belle''s POV I was informed that Niki and Alexei are on their way back home. He texted me that the three of us will talk things over when they arrive. They thought I did not know that my luggage has suddenly vanished from our closet. At this point, I literally could care less. I feel like I am looking at the ghost of Yelena as I see myself in the mirror after putting on Yelena''s clothes, the exact same dress she''s wearing in the picture used in the church service. I wore her make- up and made sure I applied it right to mimic her face. I pinned her hair clip on my hair exactly how she styled it in the picture. All I have to do now is to spray on her perfume to look and feel as close to her as I can. All this time, it was you Yelena. It was never about me or for me. Niki notice me that day because he saw you in me. Alexei fell in love with me because he believes that heaven-sent him someone who resembles you. Matushka epted me with all her heart because she sees her princess in me. Artan and Aria want me to be in their lives because I willplete their family once again. Every single person in the mansion was so protective of me because in their minds, I am the Yelena to their Bosses, the Yna in their lives. Axel wants to protect me because I resemble Yelena, his lost love. I spray on Yelena''s perfume beforefortably sitting on the chair directly facing the door. I dialed Niki and Alexei''s numbers and when they answered I yed the video where Yelena was telling Niki that she loves him, on repeat in full volume. I did not speak a single word so that the only voice they hear is that of Yelena. That should do it. I just have to wait for them toe to the room. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. I nced at Yelena''s picture on the table as I count the few remaining moments of my life here in the mansion, in the Russian Mafia, as Niki Vyachev Volkov and Alexei Viktor Volkov''s wife. I thought I could somehow make things work but then I realized that no matter how hard I try, no matter how strong I hold on, I will always stand behind Yelena''s shadow. That kind of life is not for me. I am in love but I am no martyr. I am done taking one hit after another. As expected Niki and Alexei came barging in the room like it''s a matter of life or death. They halted the moment they saw me stare nkly at them. I then slowly walked towards them, offered my hands and told them toe by the bed. I looked them in the eyes as I guide both their hands to hold my face. I kissed Niki on his cheek to make him smell Yelena''s perfume on me and then did the same to Alexei. The look of longingness in their eyes makes me want to break down and cry. Alexei held my face with both of his hands and kissed me on my lips while Niki''s arm intertwined around my waist as he stood behind my back. I can feel his breath behind my ear as he slowly kisses the back of my neck down to my shoulder. I had to catch my breath because I feel like I''m suffocating. This is the confirmation that I needed to see with my own two eyes. This gave me the closure to finally decide to leave. "I am not your Malyshka." I whispered. The moment they both heard thest word, they froze and then let go of me like they just got out of a spell. At this point, my eyes welled with tears. I wasn''t able to hold it in anymore. My knees are trembling; tears came pouring down knowing fully well that it is indeed over between the three of us. "Baby, no no no. Listen to me, okay? We need to talk." Niki said as he steps forward to hold me. "Princess, please! I am sorry. Let''s talk please?" Said Alexei offering his hand to hold me. "Stay away from me! Both of you! I don''t want to be with you anymore. I don''t want to be here anymore!" "Baby, just calm down. I know this is hard for you but please listen to us first. I love you so much please don''t do this." Niki grabbed me around my waist so I pushed him away, "No! You never loved me! You see Yelena in me that''s why you noticed me in the first ce! You had a rtionship with Yelena Niki! With your own sister! You sick bastard! And you Alexei, it was always Yelena for you! You just used me! Both of you used me!" I felt terrified when I noticed Niki and Alexei appear stunned while looking at my legs. When I looked down, I realized that there is a thin stream of blood flowing down my legs. Chapter 40 Chapter 40 St. Michael Hospital Niki fell to his knees in the hallway outside intensive care as Devon delivered the news to them. Alexei was fighting his way to see Belle but the General''s security prevented him to go inside the room. From not too far was Belle''s mother, sobbing on her husband''s chest. Matushka was calming Alexei down while the other brother was aghast- still on the floor, speechless. "I just want to see her! I want to see her! Belle!" Yelled Alexei. "Alexei please..." "Matushka! I need to see her. I am her husband! I have the right to see her!" "She doesn''t want to see you or Niki or anyone from your family. She needs to rest. You must leave." Said Devon with a hint of warning on his tone. He steps away and then instructed something to the Pwi security men. "We need to give her time, Alexei. Your wife is going through a very hard time. She needs to rest. We wille backter." Said Matushka, pleading to her son. Alexei clenches his jaw, eyes glistening with tears. He turns his back and pressed his fist to the wall. In his mind, there is no one to me but him. He knows how badly his actions had hurt Belle and how things they have done pushed their wife to miscarriage. Irene holds back her tears as she consoles Niki. He just lost his babies and he knows he is about to lose his wife as well. The Russian Mafia Boss has just made the biggest mistake and it cost him the lives of his unborn children and the woman to whom his world revolves around. The Volkov matriarch is afraid that Niki goes back into the rabbit hole. She has seen how destructive he was to himself and to everyone around him when he went through something like this in the past. She knows how much Belle means to the brothers. She is their world, she''s the air that they breathe and the sun that gives light into their lives. Irene can''t even begin to imagine what will happen if they lose Belle. Irene cups Niki''s face to force him to look her in the eye, "Look at me Niki. You have to pick yourself up. Belle needs a little breathing space right now but we wille back and get her. You still have a wife who needs you. You have to hold on." Niki wasn''t able to say a single word. In his mind, what he did to her was unforgivable. Belle was so convinced that his love for her was a sham. He recalls her face right before she bled. Her eyes said it all. He broke her heart. Worst of all, he broke her. - The Volkov Mansion Niki is standing by the window as he impatiently waits for news from the hospital. His brother went there despite the advice of Matushka to give Belle the time she needs. Niki and Alexei believe that the longer it takes for them to see her and talk to her, the more they will fall apart. They need to talk to her and exin everything. More importantly, they need to be with her as they go through the loss of their babies. The Russian Mafia Boss saw the SUVs pull over their driveway and so he hurriedly went to the grand foyer to meet Alexei. "What happened?" Asked Niki. Alexei just looked at him, not saying a single word. Boris, Andrey and Dimitri have the same look of hopelessness on their faces. They left the brothers to talk. "What happened? Did you see her?" "She''s gone." Alexei answered with a faint voice. "What do you mean she''s gone?" Niki asked as he grabs Alexei to meet his gaze. "She''s not in the hospital anymore. She was fetched by a helicopter right after we left." "Do you know where she was sent to?" "No. Hospital personnel and even the doctors were kept in the blind. Papa and Ma''s phones are untraceable. Amy would not talk to me. Pa pulled some strings to keep this all under the radar. I contacted our connections to get a location but it was a dead end." Niki cups Alexei''s face with his palms. "I will find another way. We will get our wife back. We will not stop until we find her and get her home." He already turned his back on him to go to the study when Alexei spoke again, "What if she doesn''t want to be found?" Niki was halted as his brother''s question hits close to home. He brushed off the thought because he knows that he is not prepared to face that one scary supposition, "What matters is she''s still our wife. Nothing and no one can ever take her away from us. I will make sure of that." - The only sound that can be heard in the middle of the night is the taped knuckles hitting the punchbag inside the gym. No one seems to be in the mood to sleep especially the Boss and the Underboss of the Russian Mafia. Niki hits the bag relentlessly, sweat dripping down his bare face and half-naked body. Boris is holding the bag tightly as his Boss punches his heartache away. Too bad for him however, this is only the first night that Belle is gone. Their future is still uncertain and that''s what makes Niki lose his mind. He managed to push away his wife, a woman with the purest of heart and did nothing but love him and his brother without any condition whatsoever. She epted him for who he really is. She was there at his worst. She knew his demons. She was his ride or die. Niki was deep in his thoughts when he heard amotion outside. When they came to check, they saw the two maids crying in front of Dimitri. Alexei is screaming from the master bedroom, obviously agitated about something. "It''s okay. Next time ask the butler before you go inside the Boss'' bedroom. From now on, never touch Madame''s things until you are told otherwise. Now go on." Said Dimitri to the maids. "What''s this about?" Asked Niki as he removes the tape from his hands. They can still hear Alexei scream from the second floor, obviously already inebriated. "The maids washed the duvet, the sheets and Madame''s clothes they took from your bedroom. And Alexei...well.." Dimitri did not even have to exin further. Niki knew why his brother got mad, as ridiculous as the reason may be. "I got this. You two may sleep." He said to Dimitri and Boris. When he got inside their bedroom, he saw Alexei holding a ss of vodka in one hand while his other hand is caressing Belle''s robe to his chest. He is already half asleep but is murmuring something, ''Princess, I miss you. I love you so much. I''m sorry. I love you. I need you.'' Niki took the ss from his hand slowly and covered his brother with the duvet. He noticed that the maids certainly took and changed every single sheet and clothing that could have at least have Belle''s scent. Hepletely understands why his brother went crazy. The maids did their fucking jobs fantastically in wiping things clean. He started to get pissed as well when suddenly he remembered something. He went to the counter where they hide the stashes of Belle''s panties they used to collect. He took several pieces and put them right beside his brother. In his mind, this should be enough to put the fucker to a few hours of sleep. Right now, Niki knows that his brother needs him by his side as much as he needs Alexei. He saw what his brother went through for so many years just to save Yelena from herself. Niki was the sole witness to the fa?ade that his sister and Alexei were making in front of Vyachev, the Russian Mafia and the rest of the world. In the losing end was Alexei. He cared for her perhaps a little too much while she was in love with someone else. When Alexei finally found someone whom he fell in love with, Niki promised himself that his brother was going to get the love that he so deserves. A true and genuine love from a woman who openly gave her heart without regard to what the world will say. A love that was, without reservation, given by Belle to him and his brother. As to himself, Niki just realized how much he misses Belle terribly. No words can describe the pain in his heart right now, knowing that he might havepletely lost her. The dismal silence in the whole mansion is deafening. Looking at her portrait hanging on the wall, he started to think of what might have been their future. He was finally on his way to build his own family with a woman he''s madly in love with. They could have had the babies months from now and Belle would have been a great mother to his first born --a mother that he never had when he was a little boy. He recalls asking Vyachev about his mother at the dinner table one Christmas night. His little curious mind did not understand why Alexei and the other kids had mothers who hug, kiss and wipe their tears whenever they cry. He did not understand why he was allowed to y outside while his ssmates were making Mother''s day cards once every year. He did not understand why he found it hard to draw an image of his mother when Ms. Griffin asked them to show a drawing of his family to ss. Vyachev did not mince his words when he exined to Niki that his mother did not want him. She was going to get rid of him the moment she knew she was pregnant but Vyachev wants to take responsibility for his child. He paid her off to keep the baby until Niki was born. Vyachev flew to the United States, carrying the baby in his arms. His father then went on to say that whatever happened in the past, he must take it as it is and grow up to be a man for himself. It was not long enough when Yelena, Irene, Viktor and Alexei yed a role in his life. Until then, he was raised to be Vyachev''s heir. He was taught a lot of things that made him who he is in the present---dealing with heartbreak however was not one of them. - The next day and without any sleep, Niki arranged a secret meeting in a secluded area outside of the big city. They are inside their SUV as they wait for someone from the high ranks of one of the agencies of the US government to alight from an entourage of ck cars. The woman was in her mid- forties, blonde hair and has a frigid demeanor. She gets inside Niki''s SUV, all serious and business- like. She hands him a brown envelope containing pictures of Belle from inside the Pwian Embassy. W: They did not leave the US. Her father asked assistance from the State Department for their safe passage from the hospital to the embassy. Since then, the embassy is in the no-fly zone and security has tripled in size. The General hired private contractors mostly with Pwian ancestry as bodyguards. Niki: Is there a way in? W: It''s business as usual in the left-wing annex of the embassy. (Points at the part of the picture) It is connected to the main residence but expect it to be heavily guarded. Niki: And what about Sergey Yvanislov? I cannot afford someone like Sergey on the wind while my wife''s security is beyond my control. Someone out there is protecting that motherfucker. And you still don''t have intel about him until now. W: Mr. Volkov, I have eyes only in the outside world, I have little to no influence in the underworld. As far as the agency is concerned, Sergey is a ghost. He disappeared after his whole family was massacred by your people. We do not know if he is even alive. All we know is he has the money to pay people off for him to stay alive. I assure you, if his namees up in any chatter, you will be the first one to know. - Volkov Holdings (VH) Niki, Alexei, Dimitri and Andrey are inside the big Boss'' office nning their next move. Boris approached Niki to tell him that someone who imed to be working with Governor-General Galves wants to see him. He was searched by Boris for any weapons before letting him inside. He was basically forced to sit down right across Niki and Alexei even though the man was insisting that he need not sit because his business with Niki won''t take long. "Speak." Said Alexei. "Mr. Niki Vyachev Volkov?" Asked the man, all fidgety. "It depends. Why are you asking?" Inserted Dimitri. The man sighed in frustration, "If I can just have my cellphone and eyesses back, I have a picture of Mr. Volkov there. Please? So we can all go on with our day?" He was looking at the faces of the men in front of him giving particr attention to the man unbeknownst to him, is actually the one he''s looking for. "Why did the General send you here?" Asked Alexei. "I need to give some papers to Mr. Volkov." "What papers?" Asked Dimitri. "I just need Mr. Niki Vyachev Volkov please." Andrey took the envelope from him forcefully as Boris drags him out of Niki''s office. On his way out however, the man yelled something that rmed the brothers. "You''ve been served Mr. Niki Vyachev Volkov!" When they opened the envelope, it was then that they realized that they were divorce papers -- Niki as the defendant and Mary Arabe Galves Volkov as the intiff. Belle just filed for divorce to legally dissolve their marriage. The nightmare that Niki was scared of happening just became a reality. Not long enough, Alexei''s phone rang and it is the Cartel Boss. "This is not a good time Axel." "Having a bad day huh?" "What do you want?" "I just thought that you''d want to know that your name came up at the registrar and in one of the courts in Bogota. I had my people dig for information and they confirmed that it was filed bywyers hired by Mary Arabe Volkov." "She filed what?" "It''s a petition for divorce. Expect that you will be served within the week. And by that I mean, make sure that never happens." - Belle''s POV "It''s done Ara." Devon said as he got off the phone. "Thank you Devy." I said, looking at the window as the sun starts to set. "Are you sure about this?" I do not know what to respond. At this point, I am not sure about anything. All I know is that this must be done. From here on, I need to get used to not having Niki and Alexei beside me. I thought by now, after so many times those two broke my heart, that I''d get used to this feeling. I was wrong. One can never get used to the pain and the heartbreak. I had a feeling that my parents and Devon knew about my rtionship with both Niki and Alexei. Apparently, the two came clean to my father a long time ago. My father knew I was in a rtionship with the two and he also knew that Niki and Alexei are the Russian Mafia Boss and Underboss. My parents and I never really got the chance to talk about it, they did not even ask me why or what has gotten into my head for marrying two Mafia men. All my father said was that he trusted Niki and Alexei with my safety plus I think he did not really have much choice that time because I was already pregnant. I also found out from Devon that when my parents went back to the hotel the night before I bled, Niki and Alexei confessed to my father what really happened. That they forgot about my birthday and that we were having problems but they vowed to work things out with me. However, my father told them that after what they have done, the decision will ultimately be mine. "Ara." "Yah. I''m sorry Devy. I was just thinking about something." "It''s okay. Remember that I will always be here for you. You have us, Ma and Papa and Amy. We will be here for you and the..." "Omg! B! Devon! Come and see this!" Amy said rushing into the room, almost yelling at us. She''s now looking outside the window, utterly bbergasted. Something is happening at the embassy entrance. It''s the document process server that my father envelope containing the divorce papers are taped over his mouth and his hands are tied together as he begs the security personnel to let him in. That poor man. He was just doing his job. This means that Niki already knows that we are here at the Embassy. I am not surprised a single bit. With how vast hiswork and influence over New York, Niki can basically do everything he wants and get any information he needs. Even though my transfer from the Hospital to the embassy was considered ssified information, Niki still got a hold of it with no trouble. I knew that divorcing the two was not going to be easy. They have made it very clear a few times in the past that they are not having any of it. Even though at that time, it was only a joke. To them however, it was too damn real to a point that Niki threatened to kill anyone who will facilitate the divorce including thewyers. That is why I asked my father to hire the bestw firm hoping no Volkov has Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. influence over them. Devon just talked to one of our security. The process server has something to give me and he said that it is very important. The man is already begging like his life depended on it. Knowing fully well Niki and Alexei and what they are capable of, there is no doubt that his life actually depended on it. The man has bruises all over his face and his left eye is already swollen. His hands are shaking as he opens a paper he took from his jacket pocket. "Your husband is a very bad man and you are right to divorce him." He whispered before he handed over the paper. I did not even attempt to read it. I just ced it on top of the table in my room and try to forget about it. Right now, no matter what they say or do, there is no ce in my heart for any forgiveness. Chapter 41 Chapter 41 Belle''s POV Devon arrived at the embassy residence and he seemed like he''s in no mood for anything. He looks dead serious as he approaches my father who just sat stoically as if already expecting what happened. Niki and Alexei just did what they once threatened to do if I file for divorce. Thewyers my father hired withdrew from representing me and no amount of money convinced a singlew firm in New York City to handle my case. The building where the divorce papers were filed in Colombia was razed by fire, burning every single record or proof of our filing. "Call Niki, I want to talk to him." Said Papa to Devon. My heart started to beat at an abnormal pace. My father may look like he''s so calm but I know him well enough that I start to feel nervous. The man ran a country for more than twenty years and no single assassination attempt deterred him. He would have been the Governor-General until now hadn''t he decided to retire from his office and gave way to a civil government. He had the people''s support when he rose to power and he remained so when he stepped down. This time however, Niki is on his way. New York City is the Russian Mafia''s yground and as long as we are here or wherever part of the world where Niki has some sort of influence, there is no way out for me. My father stood up from his seat and went to the balcony his back facing us. His demeanor and the way he carries himself with such grace and dignity did not seem to change in time. When he enters a room, his presence alonemands respect with a hint of charm that every great leader naturally possesses. - Phone Conversation between Niki and General Galves Niki: Papa General Galves: Niki, I would have been more impressed if you had the same dedication in prioritizing your wife. You do not want her to leave you and yet you and Alexei treated her in a way that she was unhappy with your marriage. Niki: I am sorry Papa. I just need to talk to her. I want to make things right but I can''t do that if you keep her away from me. All I''m asking is a chance to see her. We''ve lost our babies Papa. You''re a father and I know you understand what I am going through right now. General Galves: Ara''s been making decisions for herself since she emancipated from us. As her Father, it is my job to protect her because the man-or men for that matter-- who ought to do that lost their way. Niki: I take full responsibility for everything that happened Papa. I have hurt my wife and it was entirely my fault but divorce is not the solution. There is no way I am going to let it happen. General Galves: Arabe is headstrong but once she gives up, that only means one thing--you have hurt her too much. If you are going to ask me, you have ruined your marriage beyond repair. You must let her go. There is no reason for you to fight this. Niki: Would you have given up Mama when this happens to you? With all due respect Pa, I have said this before and I will say it again-- I will fight for her to the death even if that means destroying anyone who gets in my way. General Galves: I have said this before and I will say it again Niki-you are an arrogant motherfucker. Show me what you got. Pa is waiting. - Belle''s POV The stillness of the night became an inevitable reminder of the pain I have been trying to ignore. In front of my parents, Devon and Amy, I never shed a tear. I never showed how broken I am inside. I tried my best to not give them a chance to feel bad for me. But whenever I''m alone in my room, I do not have much choice but to face my reality. I have been through so much because I fell in love with the Boss and the Underboss of the Russian Mafia. I gave my all. And I mean literally, all of me. My heart was broken for far too many times, and yet I held on. Falling in love with Niki and Alexei was easy--- fighting for that love however was a whole different story. I thought I knew what I was getting into so I dived in without hesitation, hook line and sinker. Niki was having a rtionship with his sister. I have been given clue after clue right from the start and yet I was too blind to see the truth. I am willing to bet, that bastard would not have even noticed me that one faithful day if I hadn''t resembled his sister---same with his brother. I did not mind the words that wereing out of Alexei''s mouth when we first broke up. He admitted that I reminded him of Yelena but I did not care because I believed him. I believed when he said that he loves me, for me. I believed when they said that I was their world. I was shamefully and utterly wrong. When the day was about Yelena, I waspletely shut out of their lives as if I did not exist. I was expected to wait on the sideline because, in the meantime, they grieve her death. My birthday did not even cross their minds! It''s been weeks of boredom and nursing a heartbreak that doesn''t seem to go away. It''s just here, trying to friggin kill me inside. Being contained in a room was like magnifying the pain. I can literally feel my heart aching awfully inside my chest. The doctor''s advice wasplete bed rest for a week and restricted strenuous physical activity afterward. Although she also encouraged going out after and surrounding myself with people that I love. People who will not give me stress. So basically stay as far away as possible from my past-from Niki and Alexei. The silenceing from the Russian Mafia scares me. After the incident with the process server, it was dead quiet on their end. I should feel relieved that Niki and Alexei appear to have given up but at the back of my mind I know there is something going on. I just can''t seem to wrap my finger around it. I was in the middle of my thoughts when I heard a knock on my door. It''s already past midnight and I know that Devon is out with Dn, Amy went back to her brother''s house for the night and my parents are, well, they sleep early. Our security-- who by the way look like fierce Viking warriors-- are definitely not allowed to talk to me unless I summon them. I wonder who could this be? - St. Michael Hospital Niki: (Forcibly pulls out the heart monitor attached to his chest) What a fucking joke! Just clean the wound so I''m out of here! Cardiologist: Mr. Volkov, aside from the infected wound on your thigh, you just suffered a heart attack. Your medical history tells me that you were in perfect health and physical state prior to this. May I know what recent events or changes happened? Niki: I would like to be discharged now. Cardiologist: Mr. Volkov your temperature is very high at the moment. You need to stay at least for the night. Niki: The hell I will! Can someone get me my goddam shirt! Cardiologist: Mr. Volkov I strongly advise- Irene: (Interrupts) Drug him. Cardiologist: I''m sorry? Irene: (Nods at Boris and Andrey and then signals the Doctor toe with her outside of the room) The only way you can make that man stay against his will is to knock him out cold. Administer the drug or whatever you do to mental patients that make them sleep-- you know like in the movies. Cardiologist: But- (Got distracted because he just saw Boris and Andrey hold Niki down but the floor) Irene: You don''t have much time Doc. Cardiologist: But this is not a mental institution-and certainly not the movies Mrs. Volkov! This is against thew-we can''t hold Mr. Volkov against his will. Irene: Charge the damages and the bill against his name. Money is of no matter. Treat his infection and do what you need to do for his heart problem. Cardiologist: His heart problem was not really heart attack per se''. I suspect that Mr. Volkov is suffering from Broken Heart Syndrome. BHS usually mimics the symptoms of a heart attack. Whatever he is going through or has been through recently-- if not resolved-- will worsen his condition. Irene: Thank you for having themon sense of not telling a very powerful man that he might die because of a broken heart. Good call. (Her phone rings and it''s Dimitri) Irene: I have been trying to reach you Dimitri! All hell is breaking loose but you''re not answering my calls! Where are you?! Dimitri: Matushka... Irene: Did you find Alexei? Did you tell him what happened to his brother? Dimitri: Matushka, are you sitting down? Irene: (Froze as she felt strongly that something has happened to her son. She once had this exact feeling, the moment before she found out over the phone about what happened to Vyachev and Viktor) - Belle''s POV When I opened the door my heart skipped a beat as my body spun and swiftly pinned to the wall. His palm instantly covered my mouth as his gaze connects to mine. He then signals that I keep quiet as he gently closes the door, locking it from the inside. Oh my goodness. Why is this man even here? And how on earth was he able to get past our security? He looks at me longingly, brushing a few strands of my hair off of my face. He then removes his hand from my mouth and wraps his arms around me for a tight embrace. The warmness of his body and his scent reminded me of home--reminded me of the Russian Mafia. I want to push him away but my heart has betrayed my cause. This, right here, used to be my safe ce ---my sce. For a few seconds, I let my guard down and just gave up. I slowly reached for his back, leaned my head on his neck and closed my eyes. We stood in silence; the only sound we can hear is the beating of our hearts. "My sunshine." He whispered to my ear. He pulls me tighter to his chest, "We''ve been missing you." He continued. "What are you doing here Yuri?" I asked as I stood still. "I''m here to make good my birthday present to you. Here you go." He answered lightheartedly, guiding my palm to his beard. I smack him lightly on his chest I heard him soft chuckle in response. "What did you do to the guards? You know, they can kick yours and Boris'' arse without breaking a sweat." "Are you sure about that? Last time I checked they are all sleeping like big babies." "Yuri! What did you do to the guards? They are Papa''s men!" "Rx, I won''t do anything that would put me in bad terms with the General." He paused for a while and continued, "Maybe just this one time?" My heart jumped from my chest when I heard Devon knock on the door relentlessly. He''s calling my name worriedly, perhaps he has found out that the embassy has been broken in. I pushed Yuri towards the other side of the bed on the floor so he can hide underneath my bed. I took a deep breath as Ipose myself to face Devon. "Ara! "Wait Devy, I''ming!" When I opened the door Devon instantly held my face and inspected me from head to foot. "Are you okay? Did anyonee in here? "I''m okay. What happened?" Oh my goodness please I hope all of Papa''s men are okay. "There''s been a breach. We don''t know exactly what happened because our security details were all knocked unconscious by tranq guns and our security cameras have been remotely disabled. Whoever did this were pros." Devon is looking at me as if he already knows who might be behind this. "I will post security outside your room. I''m sorry I wasn''t here to protect you Ara." He said as he inspects my room. He went to the bathroom first and then went around my bed. I feel like I am going to faint. Oh goodness not under my bed. Not under my bed please. "Call me if you need anything. Amy will be here soon. I asked her to sleep here with you." "No!" I said too abruptly. "I mean, I''m okay Devy. Amy can sleep in the other room when she arrives. Really, I''m very sleepy. I''ll see you tomorrow." I said sitting down and slowly scooting over toy in bed. I hugged my pillow and waited patiently for him to leave. When I heard the door shut I told Yuri that it was clear for him to get up. He stood up from the floor and pulled me toward him but I took a step back. "Take off your shirt now." I demanded. There is only one reason why this man was able to pull off has the back of the Russian Mafia. His lips slowly pulled to the side like a loco, "Belle." "I''m serious Yuri. Take your shirt off and show me your right arm." His Adam''s apple moved as if he got caught on something. He sighed in defeat knowing fully well that I already have a hunch about his real status in the mafia. He took his jacket off and then unbuttoned his shirt in front of me. Lo and behold every single tattoo signifying his standing in the Mafia as the third man in line is intact. The monogram V on the back of his hand, the cross as a symbol of the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian words and symbols covering the sleeve of his whole arm all pointing to one fact. His wolf was not burned. He is still an important and powerful part of the Russian Mafia. I looked at him sternly, anger simmering at the pit of my stomach. "You and your Bosses are all lying bastards!" He grabs me and pulled me back to his chest, effectively immobilizing me. "Back in the boathouse, when you asked me if I am leaving the Mafia, what was my answer?" He held my chin to meet me in the eye, "What was my reply to you Belle?" I tried to disconnect my gaze from him but he held my chin to look up to him, "That you''re not leaving the Mafia." I answered without looking him in the eye. "That''s right. That was after you said that you want me to stay. The Boss and Alexei love and care for you so much that they spared my life because they know that you did not want me to leave." He paused for a little while as if thinking about his words, "That it will break your heart if I leave." I tried to ignore what he was implying but in the process, I was left crimson. I can literally feel the heat trickling up my cheeks. This time a small smile formed on Yuri''s face. "Still, you made it appear that you left the Mafia. You were nowhere to be found! Niki told me that it was your decision!" I said, as I try to make full sense of what happened. "The Boss did not lie to you. It was my decision to leave for the time being because I was on a mission to eliminate Sergey Yvanislov''s descendants and every single person connected to him whom we suspect had a hand in killing the bosses'' old men and for threatening your life. The Boss could not take any chances. It had to be done on the sly while we are still at war with the Germans." "On the sly mission like what you just did here?" "Coming here was one of the hardest jobs I ever did. It took Your Father is a tough old man to beat Arabe." He said while taking his phone from his jacket pocket. I hurriedly grab the phone from him because the man is now typing something and I think I know with whom he''s going tomunicate. "Belle I need the phone now." "No." "The Boss and Alexei need to know the truth about your condition before it''s toote." "Toote, why?" He kept silent for a few seconds and sat on the edge of the bed as if thinking if he will tell me or not. "Why Yuri?" "The Russian Mafia is imploding. The Boss had been drinking himself to sleep every night since he received the divorce papers. He''s been taking pain medication for his wound but Matushka is afraid that he''s started abusing it. We think that the pills are the only reason why he still functions every day since he barely gets sleep or eats a decent meal. He mes himself for what happened to your marriage, to you, and to your babies. Since you left them, Alexei has be obsessed with fucking killing himself. Hepetes in every single underground sport he could think of without care if he lives or dies. Now both of them are in the hospital because one''s heart has suddenly stopped working while the other one might just get what he wishes." I turned my back on him because I don''t want him to see that every single word ripped through my heart like a knife. "Belle, if you can''t forgive them, I am begging you to at least tell them the truth that you did not lose the babies. Guilt is a foe no one can ever win. Not even a Volkov." to be continued... Chapter 42 Chapter 42 Belle''s POV "I am doing this for the sake of my babies. Niki, Alexei and the Russian Mafia are not my concern anymore." I turned my back on him because I know in my heart that Yuri is right. Niki and Alexei have the right to know. "The babies are the Russian Mafia. They are Volkov''s flesh and blood." He retorted. "Before anything and anyone else, they are my babies too! I am their mother! I have to protect them even if that means keeping them away from their own father. I bled and almost lost my babies right in front of your Bosses, Yuri! Why can''t you understand that!" I''m already clenching my palm in anger. I wanted to scream at his face for thinking about the Russian Mafia when the lives of my babies are at stake. "I''m sorry, Belle. You have all the right to feel this way. All I''m asking from you now is to at least consider it. You and the Boss never had the chance to talk after what happened. You are married to both of them. Running away from them, from your marriage will not solve anything." "Running away from them will save my babies." "Running away from the Bosses will put you and the babies in far more danger. I told you that the Mafia is imploding. That is the truth. Niki and Alexei will self-destruct and along with it, the Volkov Mafia. And when that happens, who do you think our enemies from both outside and inside the Russian I turned my back on him because I somehow know what Yuri is trying to imply. He held my arm and made me face him, "Belle, the only way they can eliminate the Volkov Mafia and take over everything is to get rid of everyone down the Volkov bloodline. Our enemies will hunt the twins down because the Russian Mafia operates that way. Session to leadership is by blood. Unless someone will take charge in the meantime until the babies wille of age to take over. Until then, it will be a total chaos if anything happens to the Bosses. It will be a hunting spree for the takeover and control of everything the Mafia holds. And the conglomerate can''t even save us when the timees." "My father will protect me and my babies..." "Your father is a sickly man Belle. We both know that his heart condition hasn''t gotten better." I feel like every time Yuri reasons out, my back is slowly pushed against the wall like there is nowhere out for me but in the Mafia. He makes it appear like I don''t have any other choice but them. This made me feel uneasy in the pit of my stomach. Perhaps because I know that Yuri is just telling the truth and setting out all the possibilities if anything happens to Niki and Alexei. No matter, I can''t let them know about the babies. Because if that happens, what''s left of my little chance of breaking free from them will disappear into thin air. I know Niki will move heaven and earth just to get me and the babies if he finds out. So, I stepped towards the door and made sure that Yuri is not able to leave and tell his Bosses that I am still pregnant. I dialed my phone and called Devon. "Don''t do this Belle." Said Yuri, his shoulders fell as he hears Devon knock a few secondster. When I opened the door, Devon and Papa''s men barged into the room and made Yuri kneel on the floor. The man looked unfazed by Devon, instead disappointment and defeat are painted all over his face. I could not stand looking at him like this so I had to look away as he is being restrained by our security. His eyes never disconnected from me until he was brought out of the room with handcuffs around his wrists. - My eyes swelled with tears as I was not able to contain the pain in my heart anymore. I feel like the memories of the betrayal, the heartbreak and the lies that I went through because of my rtionship with Niki and Alexei came pouring in like a flood of emotion. Adding to that is the reality of my situation. Niki was sent to the hospital because of his stupid heart and that he could possibly be abusing his pain medication. Alexei has been rushed to the hospital because he figured into a racing ident in his bike. That friggin'' stupid bike! I know that the man is an adventurous biker but he is not reckless. How could he let this happen to himself? I want them out of my life but I sure don''t want them dead! It''s as if they don''t care whatever happens to them anymore. ''Guilt is a foe no one can ever win. Not even a Volkov'', keeps on repeating in my head and haunting my broken soul. I had to wipe the tears from my eyes as I hear a knock on my door. Amy came with the news about Alexei and Niki. Apparently, the little angel Aria was brought to the hospital to see her uncle and Alexei the moment they knew about what happened. "Alexei''s condition is unstable B. He''s still unconscious until now and is under observation. Niki was given meds so he could rest. Since you left, your husband was on the verge of being a highly functioning alcoholic and a drug addict. When we arrived there, everyone was holding their breaths. There''s news going around that if the brothers don''t make it, Yuri will take over temporarily but no one knows for how long. And well, your Yuri is confined and held at the basement right now so I don''t know how will that work out for the Russian Mafia." Hearing what happened to the two straight from Amy, my abdomen started to constrict in pain. It''s as if the babies know exactly what is happening to their fathers. "Oh my god. Are you okay B? I am so sorry. Here, lean back...slow and deep breaths.. that''s it. It''s okay. It''s going to be okay." "Is Alexei going to make it? What do you think A?" I looked at her straight in the eyes. She''s a nurse, I reckon she will know if someone is dying or not. "Of course B. He''s going to make it because he''s in good hands. Did you know that almost half of the Content ? N?velDrama.Org. medical staff in the hospital and the best doctors in the country were attending to the Volkov Brothers? So don''t worry." I know Amy too well and I can tell if she''s being honest or just trying to make me feel better about the situation. I looked at her sternly as she tries to look away from me. "A." She sighed and sat beside me in bed. "B... whatever my opinion is, will not matter because it''s up to Alexei now if he still wants to fight for his life or not. He''s in critical condition and the next several hours will be crucial if he survives or not." I feel like my heart is being crushed into tiny pieces. What if Alexei doesn''t make it? What if he doesn''t want to fight for his life anymore? Did I do this to him? It''s as if Amy knew exactly what I was thinking, she continued, "B, don''t you ever think for one second, that this is your fault. Those two are responsible for their actions. They did this to themselves by ruining your marriage." "Niki and Alexei think that I had a miscarriage. They think that our babies died because of what happened. They are ming themselves for something that they did not do." "I know this is a very difficult situation but think about it. If you tell them now, we will not get out of New York, ever. Your husband is the ultra God of the New York underground world B. The General can only do so much here in the US." "There must be another way. Maybe, I can ask help..." I just have to think of a way that I can tell the truth to Niki and Alexei and at the same time leave New York without them knowing. Amy looks at me like I just said the most ludicrous statement, "B, no one will help us here. Even your other Boss boyfriends Artan and Axelbined will have a hard time dealing with the consequences if Niki finds out that they had a hand in helping you leave. You will cause another mob war and lives will be lost. I mean, do I really need to remind you as to what level of evil your husband is?" If I did not know any better, I would think that the people around me are so hell bent in making me feel like I have nowhere to go. Regardless, I have already made up my mind. I will leave New York and divorce Niki and Alexei and my father and Devon will make that happen for me. I just need to find a way that in doing so, I don''t cause the downfall of the Russian Mafia. - Third Person POV Dimitri''s thoughts came alive like volts of electricity ran through his veins as he receives a text message from Yuri. He is sitting in the waiting area of the hospital along with Matushka, Boris, Andrey and the rest of their security details when he got the notification. The Madame Volkov is in the hospital to see Alexei and Niki. He doesn''t know what to say or to think. For one second there, he thought that he''s in a deep and hyper-realistic dream. The past few weeks have been hell in the mansion. Being around the Big Boss was like moving in calcted fear. Both the Volkov brothers have be unbearably difficult to be around with. It''s as though, one wrong move and everyone is fucking breathing thin air or mostly no air at all. Dimitri knows that Boris and Andrey received the same text message because the two stood up from their seats and alerted their men outside the hospital and the nearby buildings to make sure the safety of the wife. He decided to let Matushka know about the news but when he came inside the room where the Boss and Underboss are, the Volkov matriarch is already sobbing. She covers her mouth as she cries, in a deep and sorrowful way, her phone is on herp, looking at the text message sent by Yuri. "Matushka..." He knelt in front of her, trying to console the olddy. He doesn''t understand why she''s crying like it is the end when this should be a good thing. Baby Madame ising to see her husbands, which to him is a sign that they are going to fix and mend their rtionship despite what happened, despite losing their babies. "They are going to fix this Matushka. The Boss will make this right when he wakes up and Alexei will recover because Madame is here." Matushka Irene forced a smile and pats Dimitri''s face. "Dimi boy, bless your innocence." He looked her straight in the eyes as if asking as to what she meant. "Your Bosses are going to lose her tonight. This is her, making her peace." Matushka continued. Dimitri wasn''t able to say a word as he tries to process what Matushka said. Andrey called on to him because Belle is already heading towards their floor. They waited at the receiving area, holding their breaths as the elevator dings. They thought they knew what they were expecting, but nothing prepared them for what appeared right before their eyes the moment the entourage came out of the elevator. It is their Madame Volkov who is very much pregnant. She did not lose the babies. Matushka looked stunned, her eyes widened in utter shock. Dimitri had to hold her as she was about to break down. Even Boris and Andrey looked like they have seen a ghost in obvious disbelief. She kept from her husbands that she is still pregnant. His Bosses suffered day and night thinking that they have lost their wife and that they were the reason why they lost the babies. To Dimitri''s mind, this changes everything. Madame Volkov should not be given the chance to leave and make her peace bullshit. As they were about to approach Matushka, Dimitri instantly took the chance to go inside his Bosses'' room to wake the Big Boss up. "The fuck Boss, wake up! This is your chance to get your family together-get her home now! Wake up! She''s still pregnant with your babies. Can you hear me? She''s here and you can''t let her leave anymore. Dammit! Boss, you should see her eyes, they are not sparkling anymore. And her face-she doesn''t look like she has smiled for a very long time. Fuck! She doesn''t deserve to be sad like that. She''s happy with you and Alexei. Make that happen again." Dimitri whispered to him in Russian, while trying to shake him to consciousness. "Fucking hell Dimitri, you fucking squeal like a girl." Answered Niki who is now slowly waking up from sedation. Dimitri chuckled under his breath as he removes Niki''s oxygen from his nose. "Good to see you back, Boss. I''m guessing the drug hasn''t worn offpletely? Did you hear what I said?" "I heard you just fine." "Then why don''t you look happy?" Niki clenches his jaw as he was about to lose his patience. "Don''t worry Dimitri, when I''mpletely recovered, you get to test the same drug so you''ll know exactly why I don''t look happy right now." "Sorry Boss. This night is pretty fucked up, you know." "Get the doctor and ask him why the fuck is my head spinning like hell." "Might be a little toote for that." Dimitri said as he sees through the ss that Belle ising over. "She mustn''t know that I''m awake." Niki said closing his eyes once again. In his mind, the reason why Belle went to the hospital is that she thinks that he and his brother are both unconscious. And that more than him, the very reason why she''s here is because of Alexei. He''s not about to ruin the chance for his brother to finally feel and hear the voice of the woman that he''s in love with. He believes that Belle is Alexei''s only cure. For now, the Boss of the Russian Mafia opted to go against his instincts. His body will always crave for her. His heart will always beat because of her. She will always be the only one who can put him in his ce and bring him to his knees. But tonight, he will do anything he can to not ruin the moment for his brother. In Niki''s mind, the woman sure knows how to break his heart quite literally. He will not fault her for keeping the truth about her pregnancy from him because he knows that his wife is in the wrong belief that he and his brother are not in love with her but in the likeness of her with his sister. Niki is certain that Belle has not read the letter he sent her. Nevertheless, he is resolved in making things right. He will get his family back together. He will take his wife home--after the fucking drug gets flushed out from his system, he thought. - Belle''s POV I asked Devon to give me privacy so I can say my goodbye to the two. They stood outside the ss wall looking at me like I''m a fish in a friggin aquarium. Matushka and Niki''s men looked so dumb stricken until now. Although, I need not say anything to Matushka because she knew why I am here before I could even say a word to her. I tried to ignore them and slowly paced towards the middle of the beds of Niki and Alexei. I had to swallow the lump in my throat as I feel like choking up. I can''t help but feel the guilt for ultimately doing this to them but at the same time, there''s a part of me that screams otherwise. Leaving my marriage is the right decision. The doctor said that Alexei broke one of his ribs and only had minor injuries because of the crash. I thought that was a good thing because it means he can recover fast but what worried the doctors really is his brain. When he crashed he did not wear a helmet the reason why until now he is still unconscious. If he does not wake up in the next hour, he will be pronounced to be in a state ofa. Looking at him like this, I feel like my heart is being slowly crushed into tiny pieces. What if I did not leave the way I did? What if I did not decide to divorce them? Would he even be in this hospital bed unsure if he still wakes or not? No matter how hard I fight it, no matter how hard I try to be strong for myself and my babies, the truth is, every part of me still cares and loves every bit of this man. I slowly climbed on his bed and carefully nestled on his side. I rested my face on his neck and embraced him. I felt his body gradually warm-up against mine. And If I did not know any better, I would have thought that his heart beats a little louder and faster this time. "I have a secret to tell you but don''t tell Niki okay?" I looked around just to make sure no one is listening. "I lied when I said that he kisses better than you. I just said that because he''s got bigger ego." Recalling our happy moments together just made me feel far worse about the whole situation. Why am I doing this to myself? I am just supposed to tell them the truth about the twins and say goodbye to them but I ended up hurting myself by remembering one of the many times that the three of us were inseparable. "Alexei, wake up please. Matushka and Niki need you, the Mafia needs you. Please, you have to fight. You have to wake up." I kissed him on his cheek for onest time and tucked him back under the nket. I then went to Niki''s bed and looked at him intently. He is still unconscious because he was heavily sedated-that is why I had the courage toe here and see them. Apparently, the stubborn man refused medication for his wound and insisted to go home without getting some rest or sleep. Before anything else, I first made sure that the man is really passed out because he has quite the reputation of pretend sleeping. I nced at his manhood and saw it peacefullyden. "Uhm B.. your father called, we have to go." Said Amy knocking on the sliding door. I know the urgency of the situation and that we only have a small window before this man in front of me fully recovers from his forced sleep. I focused my attention back as to why I am here. To check on them, let them know that I did not lose the babies and say goodbye to him and Alexei before we leave for Pwi. My father arranged a private ne for us to leave in just a while. "Yes. I just need a minute A." My best friend forces a smile on her face as she heeds my request. I sat on Niki''s side, slowly took his hand and ced his palm on my abdomen. "I am sorry for hiding the truth about the twins. They are here and they are alive Niki. They will grow up in Pwi but they will bear yourst name. They are Volkovs and you are their father. I am not going to deprive you or Alexei of that right. And if someday they want to see you and be with you, I will let them. But for now, I am doing what''s best for us." I removed his hand from me, carefully stepped down the bed and gave Niki onest kiss. - When Belle left the hospital, Matushka Irene found Niki in his bed, his eyes are shut but a tear is streaming down the side of his face. The Volkov Matriarch immediately caressed him, as the Boss of the Russian Mafia, the most feared man in the New York underground criminal world, sobs in her arms. Chapter 43 Chapter 43 Belle''s POV The private ne Artemis, is now at the tarmac as we wait for our turn to take off. Seconds from now, I am finally free. My life in New York ising to a bittersweet end -- bitter because of all the things that I went through for falling in love with Niki and Alexei and sweet because of the tiny little angels in my womb that I will never regret having. I will protect them the best way I know in Pwi and I will raise them rightfully as theirst names, Volkov. I will be fair to them and I will not deprive them of the fact that their fathers are Niki Vyachev Volkov and Alexei Viktor Volkov. They will grow up with so much love surrounding them. They will have the most amazing grandparents, uncle Devon, Aunt Amy and a mother who will never All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. give up on them no matter what. "Artemis is such a hot name. I think it''s a name built under the foundation of testosterone and strength." Said Amy, breaking the silence inside the ne. "I wonder what Artemis looks like. Artan is such a daddy. He must have got the good genes from him." I just shook my head on her. I know she''s trying to make light of the situation but I am honestly not in the mood. I feel like my insides are twisting as I sit anxiously. "I got to give it to Mr. Bogdani though, drunk and broken-hearted or not, the Albanian Mob Boss always Amy told me on our way to the airport that Artan was out of reach since ourst conversation. His men were worried because he kept himself in his room, not talking to anyone except when he orders them to bring alcohol. Dn said that after Aria was brought to the hospital to check on her uncles, she was immediately sent to the safe house. This usually happens on two asions, one if there is a mob war going on, or Artan is going through something that he doesn''t want Aria to see. Dn thinks both reasons are equally true. They are preparing for the consequences of the fallout from the Russian Mafia and Artan doesn''t want Aria to see him in this situation. When my father asked help from him, he never thought twice. He immediately sent help without regard to the consequences. That man is so stubborn I honestly don''t know what I will do with him anymore. If I know that Pa will ask help from him, I would not have agreed to it. It will just cause unnecessary harm to the people who will get involved. Sooner orter, I know I have to thank him for doing this huge favor for our family. As for now however, I don''t think I can forgive him just yet for lying to me all this time. I trusted him with all my heart and yet he betrayed me just the same. My heart started to beat at an abnormal pace as the ne approaches the runway for takeoff. I don''t know what exactly to think much less to feel. I close my eyes as uncertainty seeps into my veins like gravity that is pulling me back. Am I doing the right decision? Is leaving my marriage with Niki and Alexei the right thing to do? Is abandoning them while they are both in the hospital, a decision that I will regret someday? I took a deep breath and tighten my grip around the armrest of my seat as I try my very best not to give in to my doubts. I am leaving New York City. I am leaving my life away from the Russian Mafia and away from Niki and Alexei. - Meanwhile at St. Michael''s Hospital Niki is lying beside his brother while reading the book for expecting dads that his brother bought for him in Colombia. He is talking to him in Russian as if Alexei could hear him. "Can you believe that brother? Babies will poop four to five times a day? That''s so much poop! Fucking hell. I have twins." "What''s that?" He continued, as he connects his ear close to his brother''s mouth as if he could hear him whisper. "That''s what I''m thinking. It''s on page 9. It says here that sometimes, mums will have an excess amount of breast milk. And you know what they do? They use this device called a breast pump to calm the titties. I don''t think our queen will need this device often, yah? That''s what husbands are for. To help and give the wife all thefort she needs. If both titties needfort, you take one side and I''ll take the other. If only one titty needsfort, we take turns." "Boss, we have a small problem." Says Yuri as he enters the hospital room interrupting Niki''s one- sided conversation with Alexei. "We have traced five private nes all taking off at the same time bound to Pwi in different locations in New York. We don''t have much time to pinpoint the exact ne or airport." Niki stepped down from the bed and put his jacket on. He then sat down calmly while crossing his arms over his chest. "Do you think my wife is in one of those five nes Yuri?" "No. I think the five nes are decoys." He answered with a tone of certainty. Niki walked towards the window and pulled the blinds to have a view of the New York skyline. He thought to himself that Yuri might be right, the nes are just decoys to distract them from finding the right ce where the Galves'' will take off. But that''s not about to stop him from getting his wife back. "Papa''s good. The old man walks his talk." "What''s the n?" Asks Yuri, obvious sense of urgency on his tone. "Make the call. Ground every single fucking ne leaving New York in the next 10 minutes." Yuri was taken aback at first as he knows the extent and seriousness of what his Boss is trying to say. Nevertheless, he obliges as he also thinks that this is the best chance they have at the moment to stop Belle from leaving. If they do not make it on time, they will have to take down a whole nation just to get the wife back. This is the most efficient and urgent way. Grounding every single ne even if that means pulling some major strings that the Russian Mafia holds. It''s a genius idea, Yuri thought to himself. One of the reasons why Niki is the Mafia Boss that everyone fears in the underworld. Perhaps the one man who thinks beyond evil and exactly does what he means. - 5 minutester.... Belle''s POV I am going to kill him! I swear I will strangle him to death! That man knows no limit to his wickedness. This is him, I am sure of that. We were seconds from take-off but we were not given the clearance at the veryst moment. Apparently, the air traffic office received information that there''s a bomb in one of the nes leaving New York at the exact same time that we were to take off. Can you believe that? He jeopardized other people''s time and safety just because he wants to stop our ne from leaving. He caused a major disruption to the whole of New York for his own selfish reason. "B, calm yourself. You look so flushed." "Niki did this! Now we can''t leave indefinitely because of his doing! I thought that the man is passed out in the hospital or something, apparently, even in his unconscious state he still can do such awful thing like this!" "Stop pacing back and forth Arabe, you''re just stressing yourself." Said my mother. And if I don''t know any better I would think that she favors our canceled flight back home. She''s just literally sipping her wine with such relief and calmness coupled with a smirk and a crimson face. Geez Ma. Pace yourself. How drunk are you? I removed the ss of wine from her hand and requested the server in the lounge to remove the bottle from our table but she grabbed the wine instead and signaled the server to leave. "I am mad Mama! You know what I want to do right now? I want to find him and give him one good punch in the throat!" "Oh! Like what you did to him in that meeting -when Niki sent you to the safe house but you still came looking for him stubbornly? You had that Papa''s girl attitude with you since you were a little girl Ara. Don''t tell your Father but your Pa was so proud of you for standing up for yourself against the Russian Mafia Boss and all the Bosses'' wives in that meeting." She said under her breath as she finishes her sentence and eventually realizing she''s saying things she should not have known. "Mama, how did you know of that?" She looks like she''s been caught stealing from the cookie jar with that unapologetic yet cheeky look on her face. My mother is an angel and she rarely drinks alcohol, however this time she looks like she''s genuinely having fun and my father- who is her best friend and number one promoter of her happiness doesn''t look like he''s going to burst my mama''s bubble. "Uhm, okay. So Niki and Alexei- those two handsome men of yours- they keep in touch with us almost everyday Arabe. Why do you think we don''t worry about you even if you barely call or update us about your situation here? Your Pa and I know almost everything that''s happening with you. Well, at least your men''s version of events I suppose." I honestly don''t know what to think let alone feel about this. I don''t know if I am going to be d because they reach out to my parents or mad because I did not have a single idea about it. "Ara, listen to me okay? Niki and Alexei have been regrly sending money to Pwi. They have been funding projects to build schools, hospitals and facilities to bring electricity and clean water to far- flungmunities. This week we are to inaugurate a building for an organization that rescues abandoned children. Niki specifically requested that project because he knows how important this is to you. He once told us that he severed your job at St. Mary''s School because he''s sure that you will have your te full when he puts up your own charitable organization consolidating every project he has funded in Pwi and that includes St. Mary''s school. He took over majority control of that school because oF you. All of these were supposed to be Niki and Alexei''s surprise birthday gift for you. They were preparing for it months ago. I just don''t understand what happened why they forgot about it on the day itself. It did not make sense to me and still does not until now." I know why. In the middle of a mob war, the conglomerate meeting, my severe allergic reaction which was an attack against the Russian Mafia, my pregnancy, and Yelena''s death anniversary-was my birthday. Still, this does not erase the fact that they did not remember. Instead, they were mourning their sister sh lover''s death on my own birthday. We were fighting and they used me of eloping with Artan right before my very special day. Them forgetting my birthday was only the tip of the iceberg. Truth is, it was just the confirmation of my doubts as to the extent of the lies hidden from me by Niki and Alexei, particrly of their rtionship with her. "Now let''s not forget that they have their shorings-and we all do. I am not in any way condoning whatever behavior they had that made you decide to turn your back from your marriage Arabe. I respect that, that''s why me and your Pa support your decision. All I am saying is, in every rtionship, especially in marriage, problems like this arise. And the best way to put things into perspective is to "But auntie, what if there''s nothing left to talk about? What if all the things that you need toe up with the wisest decision are allid down in front of you and there''s nothing left but to just leave?" "Well, Amylinda, in that case, you still try. Rtionships work because two -or three-people in the rtionship choose to work things out. Arabe''s father and I have been through the worst possible situations but we came out stronger every time. Circumstances will test your rtionship and it''s on you if you raise your white g or continue pushing through. Right now, it''s Niki and Alexei who want the rtionship to work and I don''t see them stopping anytime sooner." My mother might be right but in our case, Niki and Alexei had all the time to tell me and to exnation can change that fact. - Phone conversation between Niki and the General. Niki: Papa General Galves: Niki, do I have to ask you why New York City is in total chaos right now because of a purportedly terrorist bombing attack? Niki: Pa, your daughter did not give me any choice. She and my babies are the reason why this life is worth living for. I am not just going to give up without fighting to save our marriage, even if she has given up on me. General Galves: Now we are stranded in the airport and I have no doubt that you already know that I have relieved our security details after we boarded the ne. Niki: I have sent an advance party and they are on their way to your location as we speak. Dimitri is in charge. He will stay with you until I arrive there. I''m on my way. General Galves: I thought you''re sick? Niki: I am just probably- sick in the head Papa. You''re daughter ticks off a lot of buttons in my head I never knew existed. General Galves: You know Niki, when a man tells me that he''s sick in the head, I tend to believe him. But don''t me that on my daughter. You are sick in the head, period. Niki: (snickered) (short silence) Pa, how is she? General Galves: (Looks back towards Belle and sees how mad Belle is. She''s fisting her hands, red as a tomato, fuming in anger.) She''s calm. I''m sure she wants to see you right now. After his conversation with his father-inw, Niki buttons his cufflinks as he thinks of his next n to get Belle back. He adjusts his tie and jacket in ce and then kisses his brother''s forehead, "She''s definitely crazy mad right now brother. I hope she doesn''t hurt her hand after smashing it to my face. I won''t be here to see you back to the mansion but I promise to bring her home tonight. Open your eyes when you can. Do it for me, for Belle and the twins. Okay? We will be waiting for you." He signals the hospital staff that it''s okay to move his brother to the other bed to start his transfer from the hospital back to the Volkov Mansion. Niki is certain that Alexei prefers it this way. - Belle''s POV My heart is pounding inside my ribcage. I just saw Dimitri talking to my father and he looks like he''s staying or waiting for someone. Alexei''s men are here and they are now surrounding the lounge area as if something will happen to us. I really have a bad feeling about this. So I confided with Amy to eves drop to their conversation. She''s now on her way back to me like something urgent is happening. "What A?" "Omg B! Niki ising. He''sing to fetch us." Oh my goodness. So it was really him who caused this. Now it makes me think that he was awake when I came to visit them in the hospital to say my goodbyes. For some reason, part of me feels relieved because now at least I know he''s fine. A huge part of me however, feels terrified. Yes I want to punch him in the face but not now! Maybeter or some other time. Right now, I don''t want to see him! I am not ready to see him. "A. You need to help me. Where''s Devon?" "He left to arrange our return to the embassy. Dimitri was insisting that we are all gonna go to the Volkov mansion, they are just waiting for Niki to arrive but your Papa did not agree. The General wants to go back to the embassy." "We will not go back to the embassy. That''s not going to happen. When Niki says something we can be sure as frigging hell he''s going to do it. No matter what or who he is dealing with." "Hmm. I doubt that B. The General''s decision will prevail. Wanna bet?" "I don''t have time for that right now. I don''t want to see Niki A!" She looks around in defeat. "Uhm, B. In case you haven''t noticed. We are surrounded by the Russians. Your womb has two half Russians. We have nowhere to go to escape these damn Russian men." Well, I can. And I will not be forced into this situation. "Get your things. We are leaving A." "Ooooh. Like a true mafia wife." Amy said with beaming pride. "Correction! Soon to be EX mafia wife." "Yas! So how are we gonna do this?" I hushed her and went in my parent''s direction. "Mama, Papa I am tired, can we go back to the embassy now? Are you okay to leave now Pa?" "Baby Madame, you are not safe without a security detail." "I''m not talking to you Dimitri." I darted him a sharp look but he just shakes his head as if telling me not to do it. It''s a good thing that his phone rang and so I took the chance to signal Amy, Papa and Mama toe with me to leave. For some unexpected reason, Dimitri who often doesn''t ept no for an answer did not even attempt to follow us. He just stood there arrogantly while adjusting his tie with this evil smirk on his face. I''m already dialing Dn''s number as we walk towards the exit of the lounge area when my heart started to bang in my chest. As if being under a spell, everyone''s attention is now focused on someone scarily familiar entering the VIP lounge. His piercing green eyes connected to mine and in an instant caused chills to run down my spine. His tattoos and that damn wolf head appear very prominently,plementing his white shirt inside a vest and a ck jacket. What in the world is this devil doing here when just a while ago he was passed out in the hospital? He looks so serious, I involuntarily stepped back as if some kind of a survival reflex. "Oh my God! Mr. Lucifer Volkov is here." Said Amy. I know it''s bad when I can actually sense fear in her voice. Niki halted a few steps from me as if inspecting every inch of my body. I got so conscious I had to cradle my pregnant belly in utter embarrassment. Like, can you please not do that Niki? You''re getting so much unnecessary attention. The man hasn''t spoken a single word and yet everyone around him is already under his spell. The Volkov effect. I had to force myself to disconnect from his stare and walk away but it instantly became a futile act. My body swung as he pulls me to his side and then wraps his other hand over my back to put me in a tight embrace. At this point, the world around us seemed to stop moving. Everything stood still. Niki holds me so firmly to his chest that for a few moments my body did not have much of a choice but to give in. It doesn''t help that he smells so damn good that when I close my eyes, I feel like I am in our room in the mansion, just snuggling with him and Alexei by the firece. At this point, the warmth of his body against mine havepletely put my guard down. He holds me around the back of my neck gently to force me to look him straight into those dark green eyes. With his thick Russian ent, he spoke the words that wereing from his wicked heart, "Baby, pleasee home. Alexei and I are waiting for you. Come home." Chapter 44 Chapter 44 Belle''s POV Niki''s arm held me tight in ce as he guides my chin to look him in the eyes. He knows that this is my weakness. He very well knows that he is my weakness. "Baby, please." He begged. I tried to look down but he held my chin once again. Truth is, I do not want to continue looking at him because I can actually see and feel his pain. The kind of pain that the eyes can never hide. This man in front of me is not the Niki that I have always known. This is not the Volkov who always has everything under control. "You promised you''d grow old with me. You said the three of us, forever and ever. Why are you giving up on us?" It''s as if he is truly bewildered as to why I am giving up on our rtionship. It''s like he doesn''t understand how he and his brother broke my heart by using me as someone akin to their dead lover. "What am I going to be fighting for then Niki? Our rtionship was a lie. There is no reason for us to continue. There is no forever and ever. You do not love me. Your brother did not love me." "You don''t get to tell me that I do not love you. I''m the only one who gets to decide that. Believe me, you are wrong! You are the only one that I''m in love with. Whatever it is that you are thinking is wrong! Baby, did you open the letter I sent you? Did you read what''s in it?" This time, I forced myself to look away. I don''t see how the letter will change the fact that they see Yelena in me. The fact that they forgot my birthday because of her. "Ara, do you want to go?" Said Devon who just arrived in the lounge. He was the one sent by my father to arrange our return to the Pwian Embassy. Niki darted a look at my cousin but Devon could not care less. He doesn''t care that we are practically surrounded by Niki''s men and that he is going against the Mafia Boss himself. "My wife and I are talking." Said Niki as he holds my wrist firmly after he caught me attempting to pull away from him. My cousin was about to step forward to take me but then Boris and Dimitri were already by his side. Before anything could happen I took the attention of the Mafia Boss. "What do you want Niki?" "I want you toe home with me. Alexei is in the mansion. He''s still unconscious but we both know whose face he wants to see when he wakes up." "Ara." Said my cousin with a hint of warning in his voice. "I wille with you to the mansion." I said, ignoring Devon. Niki then signals his men to prepare to leave but I wasn''t finished yet. "I wille with you to the mansion for one night, just so I can see Alexei but you will stay away from me." "Okay." He was quick to answer. "And you will sign the divorce papers. You will not contest every single provision and I get full custody of the children. You will have visiting rights anytime you want." Niki''s adam''s apple moved as if what I just said was too much for him to take. He wasn''t able to say a word for a good ten seconds. He just looks at me, eyes glistening. I know that I am in no position to negotiate with him at this very moment because if he wishes, he can just have me and my whole family dragged back to the mansion. Still, I am taking my chance. "I will sign- the divorce- in one condition." I felt like my heart skipped a beat the moment I heard his response. I know that this was against his will and yet he was able to muster the words. Niki Vyachev Volkov just agreed to divorce. "What condition?" I asked before he could even change his mind. "You will read the letter I sent you and the one attached to it." The letter must be that important to him that he is willing to give up and sign the divorce paper in exchange for it to be read. "How can I be sure if you will keep your part of this deal Niki?" "I am a man of my word Arabe. I do as I say. And you know that." I know that I have struck a nerve when it came out as that I don''t trust him. Truth is, I know him as a man who keeps his word. He does exactly as he says. My father and Niki talked for a while before Papa and Mama were escorted back to the embassy. My father was not persuaded to stay temporarily in the mansion and so tonight they will be staying at the embassy. Amy and Devon wille with me to the mansion until our meeting with thewyers tomorrow to finalize our divorce. I made sure everything is nned and discussed with Niki before I even agreed toe to the mansion with him. My only concern now is surviving the night with Alexei in dire condition and Niki just around. - The Mansion Belle''s POV It''s almost midnight and so far Niki kept his word that he will stay away from me. I haven''t seen him since we arrived in the mansion. I''m in our room and everything is exactly where it was before I left. Alexei is stable but he needs to wake up the soonest possible time. The longer he''s unconscious, the smaller the chance that he will be better. I try not to think of what will happen when I leave after tomorrow given that this is Alexei''s condition. Part of me hates myself for thinking about my freedom knowing fully well that when I leave, Alexei''s condition is still unclear. I want to take care of him but I don''t know how to, if the only thing I want is to leave them. I sat back and rested on thefortable chair right next to Alexei''s bed. I cradled my very pregnant belly as the little Volkovs are making it harder and harder for their mother to function normally each day. The doctor''s appointment to know the gender of the twins is overdue. I''m thinking I should do it whilst in New York because I want to share that very special moment with both Niki and Alexei. As much as I want to divorce them, when ites to the twins, they will have their fair share of happiness. I left my phone in my bag somewhere and so I used Alexei''s that is within my reach. His wallpaper is still the same picture he took back in the brownstone house, the one with the flower headpiece. I can still remember the exact cheeky smile on his face when he called me mother earth asking about the trees in the forest. Scandalous is the mildest word to describe the contents of this man''s gallery and storage. My goodness, what if someone gets a hold of his phone? I dialed Niki and after two rings he answered. "Baby." "Hmm. How did you know it was me Niki?" "My brother is passed out. You are with him. Takes no genius to deduce really." He said with the typical Volkov arrogance. "What am I doing now?" I asked as I test my theory that he might be watching me from somewhere. I removed my bra and adjust my top to show my plunging breasts. "Oh fuck." He mumbles. "I mean, you''re calling me right now on the phone. You are asking some weird questions Arabe." He said as he clears his throat. Hmm. Suspicious. "How about now?" This time I reached for Alexei''s hand to hold my left boob. I heard him whisper in Russian. "What was that Niki?" I asked. "Nothing baby. Again, you are asking some weird questions." "Hmm. Okay. So about the twins." I said adjusting my top and going back to my seat. "What about the twins?" "Would you like to hear their heartbeats and find out their gender? You know, before- before we divorce?" I covered my mouth to suppress myself frompletely breaking down. I feel bad for the twins. I feel bad that we are giving up on them. And I hate myself for being in this situation. There''s nothing but silence on the other side of the line. I wiped the tears that are flowing down my face and did not push the suggestion further. Maybe he is not ready to do it so I just let it go. - Niki downs his liquor and closes hisptop after seeing Belle in the security camera doze off. He leaves the study and went straight to the master bedroom. He removes the phone from Belle''s hand and brushes off the hair from her face. He then checks on his brother and whispered to his ear, "You fucking lucky bastard." He puts the warm nket in ce to make sure his brother is good for the night. He then carries Belle in his arms gently, taking his precious time to ce her in bed. In Niki''s mind, he does not want this night to end. He doesn''t want tomorrow toe. He covers her with their duvet resisting the unbearable urge to touch her and feel her warmth against his skin. She''s right here beside him and yet she''s so far away. Niki can literally feel his heart hurt as he recalls how Belle is so determined to break off their marriage. How she haspletely given up on him. They have fallen apart, beyond repair. The letter is the only thing left for him to save their rtionship, and even with that, he''s not hopeful he can fix her heart to forgive him. Niki rested his back on the headboard of the bed, staring nkly in the dead silence of the night. He looks at the table right next to him and contemted for a while before finally giving in. He took a few pills from thepartment and downed it with vodka. Since Belle left them, the pills became Niki''s sce. The numbness he feels as the effect hits his system became his temporary cure. - Scene: Yuri, Dimitri, Boris and Andrey outside of the Master Bedroom, hands in their pockets and looking at the huge door in front of them. Dimitri: Why is it so quiet? Andrey: It''s not going to happen. Boris: - Yuri: (Clenches his jaw, looking at the door intently) (Turns his back and leaves impatiently.) Andrey: (Follows his brother) Hey, what''s going on? Yuri: It''s over. Dimitri: What do you mean it''s over? They''re there. They are going to patch things up and everything is going to be alright tomorrow. Yuri: It''s the Boss. The Boss has given up. - Belle''s POV When I woke up the next day, everything looks in ce and no Niki Vyachev Volkov was in sight. It was silent in the room aside from the slight beeping of some of Alexei''s apparatus. Dimitri said that his Boss left early for a meeting. I did not ask further as it''s none of my business anymore. What matters is he has agreed to sign the divorce paperster. Before anything else, I needed to arrange Alexei''s care before I leave. Amy was able to rmend four private male nurses who will work in shifts to tend to him aside from the ones sent regrly by the hospital to check on him. I held Alexei''s hand tightly and kissed him all over his face as I reckon that this is going to be thest time that I''m going to see him for a very long time. "I''m sorry Alexei. I am so sorry if it has to end like this. Please wake up soon? You can visit the twins anytime you wish. Just please wake up. Your brother needs you. And the twins need you." My heart is honestly torn between still hating him for what he and his brother did and not wanting to leave because of his condition. "Belle, dear, may I speak with you?" Asked Matushka as she enters our room. I quickly wiped the tears from my eyes and my face because I do not want her to see that even in surrender, I''m still miserable. To my utter surprise, she slowly knelt in front of me while looking down on the floor. "Matushka." "It was my fault." "Please, don''t do that Matushka. What''s the matter?" "Princess, I was the one who insisted to your husbands to give Yelena ourst goodbye. I prepared the memorial. I was the one who arranged that room to look like Yelena''s room without Niki and Alexei''s knowledge. I ced your wedding gown in that room because I was thinking that Yely would have looked so beautiful in that dress too." I did not know what else to say at this moment. I am so confused no words areing out of my mouth. "The first time we met that night when Alexei brought you to my house. I became obsessed with the thought that finally-finally I can make things right with Yelena. That you are our redemption." I remember that night and as I recall, she indeed calls me Yelena the first time we met. And I also remember vividly how Alexei disapproved of it. Disapproved of how his mother looked at me and called me Yelena. "Please." I pulled her carefully from the floor and helped her sit down on the chair. "Why did you think that I was your redemption? I don''t understand Matushka." "For years I refused to ept that Yelena''s death was because she ended her own life. I insisted that someone out there was responsible for her death when all this time I have known the truth. I manipted my sons to believe that she did not kill herself but someone did. I made Niki and Alexei find the person behind her death for years." The shock and disappointment are making my stomach churn. I could not believe that Matushka could do that to her own sons. "You lied to your sons and told them that Yelena was killed by the Mafia''s enemies when in truth, she killed herself? Shemitted suicide by crashing her car but all this time you made Niki and Alexei chase someone who does not exist since there was no one responsible for her death but herself!?" "I wanted to protect-" "Protect what? Who? Do you know how Niki and Alexei suffered because of that Matushka?! Everyday of our lives, your sons med themselves for what happened to Yelena. Yours and Yelena''s selfishness have ruined Niki and Alexei!" All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. This time tears are flowing down her face uncontrobly. She covers her mouth with her shaking hands, she could not even look me in the eyes. "Did you tell them the truth? Please tell me you told them the truth." "I told Niki and Alexei the truth. They left the mansion after the church service on the memorial day because of that- because of what I have done. All of these happened because of me. So please me me princess, but I beg of you to please talk to Niki." - I feel like there''s a lump in my throat that is slowly suffocating me as we head to our first and probably Niki''s men escort us to the venue. I''m holding the papers folded together that I was supposed to read as a condition before Niki signs the divorce papers. I was told that he was on the way to the meeting as well. Momentster my phone rang and it''s Niki. "Baby." He said, his voice calm and it almost feels like a soft whisper to my ear. "Niki." "Were you able to read the letters?" He asked almost jittery. I''m holding the folded papers in my hand tightly and to be perfectly honest, I''m so afraid of what I might find out if I read this. Matushka''s revtion was something I was not prepared to hear, but it was the inevitable truth. "Yes. I''ve read it." The words rolled out of my mouth as I resign to my fear and lie to him. It took him a while to respond, but when he finally did, his voice sounded more like saying goodbye than what the words actually meant. "Belle, ya lyublyu tebya." He ended the call as I was left staring at the folded papers in my hand. My teardrops have blotted the paper revealing some letters written in beautiful cursive. There''s an old paper attached to a newer one. It''s Yelena''s letter to Niki. ~ My dearest Niki, I terribly miss you. They still would not let me visit you and it makes me really sad. The house is not the same without you and Alex. Papa has again set his eyes to find a man for me to marry. Someone from Colombia who is a son of Papa''s friend. I believe his name is Sebastian. I don''t like him that much. He face, it was funny! Papa got upset and told me that he will just marry me off to uncle Artemis'' son instead. He knows that I don''t like Artan. He is arrogant and thinks of himself as better than you. No one is better than you. You are the one I want to marry someday Niki. You told me that you will protect me and love me as your sister, but why wouldn''t you promise to marry me? I asked you so many times before but you ignore my questions. Matushka said that I cannot marry you because you are my brother and I should never say a word about this again especially to Papa Vyachev and Papa Viktor. Niki, I don''t care what they say, you''re still the one I want to marry. I don''t care if you are my brother. I will still love you until I die. I miss you so much. Everyday, I will be waiting for you toe home. Love, Yely. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Niki''s Letter to Belle To my beauty, By now you would have read one of the letters sent by Yelena when I spent time in the facility. My rtionship with my sister isplicated. I did not think to talk about it with you in the past because I did not realize that it will greatly affect my rtionship with you. This was my mistake and I regret not doing this at the right time. I love Yelena but not the same as how she felt for me. I loved her as my sister, nothing less and nothing more than that. At first Papa and Matushka thought that it was something that she would outgrow and forget in time but they were wrong. Her obsession to marry me was the reason why Papa wants to arrange a man to marry her when she herself after Papa sent her to boarding school. She had to stay at home so we can look after her to make sure it never happens again. For years, she let go of herself, doing drugs, drinking alcohol and dating every guy that came her way. We were slowly losing her right before our eyes. When we found out that Papa had nned to send her off to a rehab facility in Moscow, I knew that she was not going to make it there. I tried to talk to my father but he did not believe that Yelena will change for the better. Alexei and I made a decision to save her from being sent off to Russia by convincing Papa Vyachev and Papa Viktor that Yelena and Alexei are having a baby. At that time, Yelena was already pregnant with Aria. As to my brother, he was, at that time, in love with her so he was willing to y the ruse with us to cover up what''s really going on with Yelena. Alexei and Yelena yed the part in front of Papa and the people around us. Soon after that, their wedding was nned. But when Pa Vyachev and Pa Viktor died everything came spiraling down quickly. The Mafia was unstable because the elders doubted if I can run and lead the Volkov Mafia at my age. They doubted me from the very beginning but I know that I did not have to prove myself to them. I am my father''s blood. I am a Volkov and they''d have to kill me to overthrow the leadership. After Yelena gave birth to Aria, she did nothing but to hate me. She came back to her old ways. Yelena tormented herself because she knows that''s the only way that she can get my attention. And then that unfortunate night happened. I was leaving for Boston. She was begging toe with me but I told her that she should stay home because she''s not well. She went hysterical, ran away, and drove off, crashing her car to her death. Later on, Matushka found a note in her room leaving Aria to Artan if anything happens to her. She made it clear that the baby girl will grow up in her father''s without interference from the Volkov family. We all respected her wish. I believed Matushka when she said that the crash could possibly be done by the Mafia''s enemies. We were ready to believe that convenient reason because behind all that was our own denial of our faults and regrets. I regret arguing with her that night. She would not have run away if only I let here with me to Boston. I could have done more for her. Now I have done that same mistake again. I could have done better to take care of you and love you as my wife but I did not. You believed that Yelena and I had a romantic rtionship because somewhere along the way, I unintentionally made you feel and think that way. What the Albanian did on your birthday was what I should have done as your husband. I broke your heart on your own special day. This one will haunt me to my grave. That day, I was so upied with burying my past that I have lost sight of my present which all that should have mattered. Belle, I have never loved a woman as much as I have loved you. I am in love with you and you alone. Absolutely nothing can change that. Not even that goddam broken heart fucking syndrome shit the doctor diagnosed me of. Without you, there''s nothing really left for me now. Forgive me, Beast - Belle''s POV I begged Devon to drive as fast as he can to the meeting ce. I need to be there before it''s toote. "B. What''s going on? Are you okay?" "Yes, I just need to see Niki before the meeting," I replied while dialing on my phone. It''s just been ringing but he''s not answering. Thank goodness the building is already right in the corner. My hands are shaking and my heart is pounding inside my ribcage as we pass through the entrance and head our way to the elevator. I am not sure about what''s going to happen but what I am certain is that I want to see Niki and tell him that I do not want to lose him. - The scene right after Niki asked Belle on the phone if she has read the letters. Niki had topose himself after ending the call. Belle has read the letters but she sounded indifferent and still want to push through with the divorce. He went to Belle''s parents who are now in one corner of the table waiting for their daughter to arrive. He kisses the mother''s forehead and reached for her hand to pay his respect. He then reaches for the General''s hand and connected it to his forehead. He then instructed hiswyers to agree to everything that Belle wishes in the divorce, she gets 3/4 of all the wealth of Niki with an addendum that should he die, the remaining wealth will redound to the benefit of his ex-wife and the twins. The conditions were quickly attached in the divorce settlement papers already prepared for by the agreement is Niki''s signatures. Belle''s mother got teary-eyed seeing how Niki looked at the documents in front of him in its final form, waiting for his signature. Even his men surrounding him looked like they were all holding their breaths. He nced at his phone onest time before he finally signed the papers. It was swift and systematic as one of hiswyers was pointing to where he was supposed to sign. - Belle''s POV He signed the papers. Niki signed our divorce papers. When we arrived at the conference room, what was left was the divorce documents on the table already signed for by Niki. "B, this is what you want right? Niki signed your divorce papers. You are free!" Amy said, looking at me intently, but so unconvinced and doubtful of my reaction. I looked at her, Devon and my parents pleading for them to understand what I''m about to do at this very moment. "Papa, Ma, I don''t want to divorce Niki." Thewyers looked at me like a grew a horn, Amy gasped in surprise, my mother''s jaw dropped in utter shock while Papa and Devon just looks at me with a weary and perhaps disappointed reaction. I gathered all the papers and shove them all down the shredder in the corner. I want to run so bad but given my condition, walking alone feels like a friggin sprint for me. I looked over the ss window and saw ck SUVs still parked by the building. That means Niki is still here. I hurriedly pulled up my dress so I can walk as fast as I can. Amy and Devon did not have much of a choice but toe with a deranged pregnant woman. "This is crazy, you''re crazy you know that right?" Amy said with a smile of surrender on her face like she actually gave up on even bothering to counsel me. I dialed Niki once again and this time he answered in two rings as I approach the exit near them. "Niki." "Baby? I mean, ex-baby?" "Niki!" He chuckled. I was so close to him when all of a sudden there are men who arrived in ck cars with blinking lights that quickly surrounded the Russians'' entourage. They made them drop one by one on the ground facing down while pointing guns at them. Our men did not have a choice but to oblige as they were disarmed forcefully. This time, they surrounded Niki while pointing guns at him and screaming at him to be on his knees. At this point, nothing else really mattered in my mind. Niki needs me. My husband needs me. I don''t know where and how I got my strength but I ran to my husband and wrapped my arms around his neck. "Baby, no no no no!" Niki begged frantically. "No Niki! I''ming with you! Wherever they take you, I''ming with you!" "Don''t shoot! Don''t shoot! Don''t fucking shoot at her or I fucking swear to god!" Niki warned while his hands are raised behind his head. "Hold your fire! Stand down!" Someone ordered the other men. "Baby, go to Devon right now. He''s right there. Look at me, you need to go with him. I got this okay?" I can see that Devon and another guy are closing in to take me so I took the remaining moments to kiss Niki on his lips, which my husband reciprocated with a long and deep kiss. "I love you Niki." "Ya lyubyu tebya my baby." As I was pulled away from him, Niki knelt on the ground as they handcuff and arrest him. Chapter 45 Chapter 45 TV News Report The owner of Volkov Holdings, one of the most sessful investment firms in New York City and Russian Billionaire Niki Volkov was arrested this afternoon for moneyundering, drug trafficking and multiple counts of murder. A video of his arrest surfaced online where he is seen with a pregnant woman right before he was taken into the custody of the FBI. The woman was identifiedter as Mary Arabe Volkov, Niki Volkov''s wife and daughter of the former President and despot of the Republic of Pwi, General Galves. Niki Volkov ording to the FBI is allegedly linked to the underground Russian organized crime group operating not only in the City of New York but across the United States of America. More on this developing story after a short break. -- Interviewer: This arrest has shocked the businessmunity because Niki Volkov is a known businessman and his investment house Volkov Holdings has been one of the strongest investment houses in the country. Person 1: That is correct. Niki Volkov has quite the reputation as one of the very few bachelor billionaires in New York City. Let me just be clear. Niki Volkov owns VH or Volkov Holdings in full, he does not have partners, he is not the CEO, his house does not rely on stockholders because the man literally owns VH. He does not answer to anyone but to himself. This means, when he invests on businesses, the moneyes from his own pocket. How deep is that pocket? We will know in the days toe as the case develops. Person 2: If the case even progresses. Let''s not forget that we are dealing with a very powerful man, with very powerful friends and basically unlimited and overflowing coffers. The FBI must have a very strong case and sufficient evidence to have him arrested like this. Interviewer: How do you think will this affect his businesses and his investments in variouspanies? Person 1: Well as of now, there will definitely be a standstill in terms of Niki Volkov''s external investments, meaning the ones that the VH has stakes and investments in other businesses and FBI had simultaneous raids all over his properties. This is just the beginning said the Director of the FBI. Interviewer: Now let me just talk a little about the drama that unfolded before the arrest. You said a while ago that Niki Volkov is quite popr as one of the very few bachelor billionaires in New York City. Apparently, the woman in the video was in fact Niki Volkov''s wife. What can you say about this? Person 2: This came as news to some mostly because Niki Volkov may be a popr figure in New York City but he is a very private individual. He has never granted interviews, he''s rarely in the public eye which I believe worked out for him well as we are only finding out now that he is no longer a bachelor but an expectant father. - Belle''s POV "Ara! Listen to me! What you did was insane and careless! You and your babies could have been badly hurt! Are you even listening to me?!" "Devon, I''m okay! Nothing happened to me. I''m safe. The babies are safe! What I need to do right now is to see Niki. Where did they take him? I need to talk to him!" "He knows what to do. And he wants you to leave New York for now. The ne is ready. Artan has arranged our safe exit to Pwi." I know that Niki wants me to leave New York because he wants me and the babies to be safe, but what about him? And what about Alexei? "I am not leaving." "B, you can''t go back to the mansion. They have arrested Matushka, they have Alexei, the FBI is all over the mansion, there are news people outside, cameras everywhere, helicopters hovering. It''s crazy out there." Amy said worriedly while watching the news on her phone. Devon is already talking to Artan''s men and I have a strong feeling that he is going to insist on leaving. I can''t let this happen. "Ara,e on. Let''s go. Papa will take the other ne. We have to leave now." I turn my back on him and looked outside because to be honest I feel like I am going to run out of breath. "I will stay." My cousin forces me to face him and held me firmly in my arms. "Are you really out of your mind Arabe? Your husband''s empire is going down and believe me it''s going to get ugly! Do not put yourself and the babies in this situation." "You don''t understand Devon. Niki has no one but me! He has no one! Alexei-his brother and his best friend are still unconscious, Matushka-the woman whom he treated as his mother betrayed him, his sistermitted suicide and until now he still mes himself for what happened, his father was murdered and he has to fill the biggest shoes Papa Vyachev left, and he once thought that we lost our babies because of what he did. I made him believe that lie Devon! He signed our divorce papers because of me! I made him do it. He''s always protecting the people important to him even if it will destroy him-even if it ruins him! And If I leave now, no one is going to be there for him. I don''t want to leave. Niki needs me. My husband needs me." Devon held me to a tight embrace begging for me to calm down which is very much impossible given the current situation we are in. "What do you want to do?" "I want you to take Mama and Papa home. Papa cannot be dragged into this mess. The media and his enemies in Pwi will surely use this against him." "It''s toote for that Ara, every media outlet here and in Pwi are going to be digging information about you. They are going to twist every angle to fit what they want the people to believe about you. Papa and the family are preparing for it, we are ready for it, what we are worried about is you. Your whole life, Pa made sure to give you a sense of normalcy and kept you away from the prying eyes of the tabloids and the media. But what is happening right now-of this magnitude, we can only do so much. If you stay, you''ll have to prepare yourself for the blowback. This is something that is not gonna go overnight." I understand Devon and I''m willing to face whatever it is thates my way. I will not be able to forgive myself if I leave Niki to face this by himself. He needs us as much as we need him. I can''t just leave while he''s in this situation. Papa arrived from where was Niki detained and somehow I felt a little relieved knowing that Niki''s dies down but I told him exactly what I said to Devon. I am not leaving. I asked my father to go back to Pwi because I know that they will connect him to the Mafia which they had nothing to do about. It was me who fell in love with Niki and Alexei and I must face the consequences of my actions without dragging them into this. My father has our family name and our country to protect. There are millions of people who believe in him and I am not about to let his sacrifices be put to waste just because I knowingly involved myself with the Boss and the Underboss of the Russian Mafia. - As I was anxiously awaiting news about Niki, Artan sent word to Amy to answer his calls. Apparently, the man has been calling me but I have not been paying attention to my phone. I just noticed that I have so many missed calls and messages already. One text message from him however, caught my curiosity. Russian elders need to be checked. Whatever you need, I''m here for you. I know better than to involve the Albanian Mob in the Russian Mafia''s affairs. As much as I need all the help I can get right now, I know that I have to face and resolve this internally. Lest, our people will think that there''s no one left in the family to handle our own troubles. If only Boris, Yuri, Dimitri and Andrey were not arrested, they can give me insight into this elder situation. All I know is that some of the elders have doubted Niki before. I reckon that they are the ones that Artan is warning me about now. I need to know what''s happening in the Mafia while their Bosses are indisposed. "B, someone leaked these on the inte. And every news sites have picked this up as well. I''m sorry. I thought you should be aware of what they have about you and Niki and Alexei so that you can prepare yourself." It''s a video footage and pictures of our mansion including our bedroom, bathroom and our closet. Basically, our private life is out there for everyone to see and specte. These people do not y fair. It''s not even a full day that Niki has been arrested but they are all over our lives just like that. "It''s fine A." "It''s fine? No, it''s not fine B! It says in the article that some of the authorities were able to find in the mansion devices that contain explicit videos. Have you- I mean, did you and your men happen to have these kinds of videos? Are you aware of this?" Shit. I had to sit down as my knees felt wobbly all of a sudden. Oh my goodness. I remember leaving Alexei''s phone right next to his bed. And they probably have Niki''s phone as well. "Did they show the video? Did they post it?" I asked, almost running out of breath. "Oh my god B! So you mean, there is indeed a video of you, Niki and Alexei having sex? Do you really want to give your father another heart attack? Oh my god!" "A, please just be with my parents now. I need you to be with them. I need to go to Kovrov." "Are you even listening to me? You. Have. A. Sex. Video! You have a video having sex not with one man, but two!" This is just a speck of my worries really. I have an organized criminal organization to watch over and a family to protect. I have to go to Russian Town and find the only persons I can trust in the Russian Mafia right now. Time is of the essence. "B!" "Ames! I heard you! I need you to calm down!" "No I am not going to calm down! Your coochie and your Niki''s and Alexei''s d*cks are probably all over the inte as we speak!"Content ? N?velDrama.Org. "If there''s a leak, they would have probably posted the videos already." I retorted. "Videos? Meaning? There are more videos? B!" Amy yells as I leave her utterly shocked in the living room of the residence in the Pwian Embassy. Right now, I will not worry about the things that I cannot control because it will just drive me crazy. I will focus on the problems I can still solve and things that I can control. Like the looming chaos that might happen if the elders who doubted Niki before remain unchecked. I called Ivan and Vasily hoping that they were not picked up by the FBI as well. I felt so relieved when they answered and told me that they were just waiting for anyone from the mansion to call. When I saw the ck SUV in front of the embassy, I instructed the guards to let them in so I.V can take me to Kovrov. - General Galves and Devon watching over the window, seeing Belle leave the embassy grounds. Devon: She''s pregnant and stubborn. Are we really gonna let her do this on her own Papa? General Galves: Let her be. She needs to stand for her family. People will expect her to pack up and leave. But it''s up to her now. Devon: (sighs and waits nervously) General Galves: Are they following her? Devon: Yes Pa. Artan Bogdani''s men have eyes on her. Niki has put a hit over the head of anyone who touches her. She is also under Axel De Alba''s protection. I don''t know what kind of idiot in the underground world would think of touching her. General Galves: What is her connection with Mr. Bogdani and Mr. De Alba? Devon: I am not aware of her exact connection with the two. But as far as the underground criminal world is concerned, Dn said there''s a rule in the Conglomerate that if a Boss does not have a wife, he can choose a woman he wants to elect as his wife in the Conglomerate. General Galves: (Wrinkles his brows) Devon: Word has it that Arabe is still the Conglomerate wife of Artan Bogdani and Axel De Alba. She still holds the power as the Albanian Mob Boss'' Wife and the Cabana Cartel Boss'' wife until those two find a real wife. That is true even though she is legally and technically married to Niki and Alexei. General Galves: Is she aware of that? Devon: I asked that same question to Dn. As far as he knows, Ara is of the belief that such arrangement is temporary. She does not know that she remains to be the Conglomerate wife until the Bosses marry another woman. Niki and Alexei thought that it was for her protection in case things like this happens. Chapter 46 Chapter 46 Belle''s POV Ivan and Vasily informed me that I don''t have to worry about Kovrov as di, one of the elders whom Niki trust in the Russian Town has everything under control in his territory. What the two are not sure about are other territories under the helm of the elders loyal to Papa Vyachev but had seniority issues with Niki. Their number is not significant to topple down Niki but it''s wise to give some people loyalty check especially now that their Boss had been arrested and their Underboss is unconscious. I am just now realizing the gravity of my current situation. This is all me now. I''m the one left to do what my husbands have been doing almost all their lives. What am I even gonna do? My heart started to bang inside my ribcage. I''m pregnant, my back is aching, every time I rest my head on something I doze off like I have been deprived of sleep and I am constantly hungry. I want to throw up every time I smell something fishy. And my belly would randomly twitch or tickle inside like there''s a mini wrestling match going on inside me. On top of all that is the fact that I almost died of a severe allergic reaction, almost had a miscarriage, went through divorce, my husband had been arrested right in front of my eyes, my other husband is still unconscious, our home had been seized, my private life has been publicized, and I may or may not have videos of my sexual activities with my husbands leaked on the inte. "Stop. Ivan. Pull over please." He looked at me in the rearview mirror worriedly and slowly pulled over the side of the road. They instantly went out of the car and stood by my side when I went down to puke. Vasily took something from the SUV and gave me a bottle of water. "Madame. I think you need to rest." "I just need to breathe, is all Vasily. Can you give me a moment please?" They both nodded and gave me a little space. I sat on the edge of the floorboard of our SUV and dialed my father. To my surprise however, he called me first before I could even press the call button. "Papa." "Ara. Do you want toe back to the embassy?" "No Pa. Can I ask you about something?" "Okay." "When you were still the Governor-General what did you do when there''s resistance within your ranks?" "Hmm. Resistance within my ranks meant nothing more but mutiny. Mutiny in the armed forces during my time in Pwi is punishable by death through firing squad." "Did-did you have people punished through firing squad because of mutiny?" "No Arabe." "You mean, there were no traitors in your ranks before?" "Oh, there were traitors. I just did not give them the chance to die through firing squad. They died of natural causes." "Pa?" "Arabe. If there''s a traitor in your ranks, you nip the bastard in the bud like a spring frost to a flower bud." I can''t believe that my rtionship with my father hase to this point. I am now asking him for guidance on how to weed out traitors and run a friggin Mafia. I honestly did not think of this as part of my job description as Niki''s and Alexei''s wife. But here I am, on my way to the ce where my husbands keep their stashes when situations like this arise. The ce is under the protection of the Conglomerate. The coordinates of the location were sent to me in a tablet by Axel through a messenger he sent my way. We arrived at a basement parking and a narrow underground driveway where there are motion-activated lights. Vasily opened the car door for me and helped me step down safely. There''s a huge steel door that requires my handprint and an iris scan which instantly recognized me. However it then required a voice password which I had no idea about. As far as I can remember, when we arrived in Colombia to do the authentication process for my formal inclusion to Conglomerate as Niki''s wife, I only had to give my hand prints, eye scan and voice sample. There was no mention of a voice password. "Mrs. Volkov." I said as this is the password for my closet back in mansion. Incorrect Password. Geez. Okay. Uhm. "Mary Arabe Volkov." Incorrect Password. "Forever and ever?" Incorrect Password. Oh my god. Think Belle! What could be the password that your husband programmed in this? I am sure it''s something personal. Something that only Niki, Alexei and I know. "Ya lyublyu tebya." I said with so much hope I was almost a hundred percent sure until- Incorrect Password. At this point, Ivan and Vasily must have noticed that I am getting anxious by the second. Ivan nods at me while Vasily came a little closer. "It''s okay Madame. Take your time." I took a deep breath and closed my eyes. It took me a few more minutes before I have finally figured it out. "I will eat your pussy." Heat crawled up my face in embarrassment but it quickly turned to surprise when the steel door opened. Goddammit Niki! Of course, the password is his chat username which the man refuses to change no matter what I say or do. All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org. As we walk inside the facility, the lights started to turn on gradually. My eyes instantly marveled in awe as I see stacks after stacks of money on one side of the storage warehouse, and stacks of gold bars on the other side like it''s a friggin vault in a bank. There are at least four covered vehicles and a big bike in one corner and then guns of different kinds on another side. In the shelves are mine, Niki and Alexei''s passports for different countries in Europe and Asia and unsurprisingly, with different names and identities. There''s cash in different brown envelopes in different currencies corresponding to the countries in our passports and the contact persons and dummy bank ounts in each country. I guess Niki and Alexei had it all figured out before. I reckon our money in the banks have been frozen by the authorities including all the money deposits under my name. And if it was indeed not included in the seizure, it is wise not to touch a single dor from those ounts just to be safe. Besides, I have all the things that I need for the much-needed loyalty check in the Russian Mafia in this secret storage. "I.V grab a bag of cash and take any guns that you need including that one." I said referring to the bazooka like thingy mounted on the wall. Papa collects these kinds of things. I''m sure he will love this one. "What''s the n Madame?" Asked Ivan. "We will go hunting tonight." I replied. "Do you know of anyone in the Russian Mafia that might be a little too happy that Niki had been arrested?" "I can think of a few." He answered with a puzzled look on his face. "Good. Let''s pay them a visit." I said as Vasily hands me a gun and then reminding me about the safety lock. This is now the perfect time to know some of the elders'' true colors. If I am able to prove tonight that they are nothing but sleazy old men who wishes nothing but the worst for the Volkov family, I can give Niki a reason to take them down for disloyalty to the Mafia. "Madame. We can''t cover the northern and southern hemispheres at once. We will have our hands full in the city alone." Vasily said while slinging the guns in the holster of his jacket. I understand that the Mafia''s territory is so vast that it''s basically impossible for us to finish tonight but we actually did not have to travel to the different territories at all. We have men at our disposal who are just a call away but for this n to work, we need to be subtle. The fewer people involved, the better. I just need to tap the right people without making a big fuss about it in order to not tip off the elders. And I think I know someone who can help me. "It''s okay. Just take me to Zora." - Tatyana: (Gets inside the SUV parked by the road across Zora) Madame Volkov, there''s a secret meeting that is taking ce tonight here. (Hands over a piece of paper to Belle) Belle: (Reads the paper and hands it over to Vasily in the front passenger seat) You know where that is? Vasily: Yes Madame. Tatyana: The people you are looking for are going to attend that meeting. I see no other reason why they have to be in that meeting while the Boss and underboss- (chokes up) are unavable. Belle: Thank you Tatyana. Tell the girls that whoeveres after them because of this will answer to me. They are assured of protection as well as their family''s safety. Tatyana: Thank you again Madame Volkov. You can count on us again if you need us. Belle: I wish that there will be no need for me to do that in the future but I will hold you to that offer. Tatyana: (smiles coyly) Do you need anything else Madame? Belle: Ivan, Vasily, give us a moment please. Tatyana: (waits anxiously as I.V steps out of the SUV) Belle: Do you know what qualities I love the most about my husbands Tatyana? Tatyana: (looks at Belle nervously) Madame? I''m not sure what you mean- Belle: (Interrupts) I can trust them with other women fully naked in front of them and they would still choose toe home to me every single time. Tatyana: (Recalls what she did in front Niki in the study when she was still in the mansion) Tatyana: I''m sorry- Belle: No you are not. You''re just sorry I found out. You tried to seduce my husband in my own home and when he did not bite the bait you ran out crying. Tell me I''m wrong so I can send you a copy of the security camera footage. Tatyana: I don''t know what you want from me now. I made a mistake. Belle: Never ever cross me again or I will destroy you. Tatyana: (Keeps silent) Belle: Take the bag, take your money and give the girls their share. I''ll call you when I need you. (Opens the window and signals Ivan and Vasily to get in.) Ivan: Where to Madame? Belle: Let''s go crash a traitors'' meeting. Chapter 47 Chapter 47 SOMEWHERE IN BOSTON Sergey Yvanislov: What did you say? FBI: We are releasing Niki Volkov. Sergey: I gave you everything that I have to take the man down! What the hell happened? FBI: After the raid in his properties and his mansion, we still don''t have enough evidence to link Volkov to the Russian Mafia aside from thest name Volkov. Do you fucking know how many Volkovs are there in this country? Your boy cleans up his tracks so well, not even a fucking parking ticket or a tax case could be filed against him! Sergey: (clenches his jaw as he looks at the man intensely) He has a brother! Did you at least try to find evidence linking Alexei to anything at all? The man runs the Russian Mafia! He''s the fucking underboss! There''s got to be a slip up on their part somehow!? Right?! Find it! FBI: We are pulling the plug Sergey. There''s nothing we can do now. Sergey: How about my testimony? What will happen to the case now? FBI: Your testimony is good for nothing if we don''t have evidence to corroborate your allegations. There''s not a single soul in the underworld who is willing to testify except you. Sergey: So that''s it? Am I still under witness protection? FBI: All I can do now is give you a location to safely hide but that''s about it. Sergey: What really happened here? Tell me. FBI: (sighs) We have orders from the high up. Sergey: How high? FBI: (looks at Sergey as if contemting to tell) Sergey: (grabs the man by his cor) How high? FBI: The POTUS. Sergey: (eyes widened, slowly lets go of the man and sat down in defeat) FBI: Money runs the world Sergey. Niki Volkov is one of the biggest secret campaign contributors of the President and he was the reason why the man swept the votes in the great state of New York. We cannot take Niki Volkov down. Sergey: You''re throwing me under the bus? FBI: The bureau is going to facew suits from the Billionaire who was arrested in front of news reporters and his pregnant wife. I specifically told you not to leak the information about the arrest but you still did. You''re not the only one who''s thrown under the bus here Sergey. - Albanian Mafia Dardan: Boss, we entered the Irish''s territory. I don''t know what your Belle is doing right now but I don''t think a pregnant woman should be going around New York in the wee hours of the night, outside of the Russian Mafia''s territory yah? Artan: Don''t take your eyes off of her, not even for a second. Dardan: We got it Boss. Just one thing, are we going to have a problem with the Irish if they see us here? Artan: Belle gave the Irish a heads up right before we could talk to them. She''s nning on doing something in that pub, so watch her every step. Dardan: She''sing out of the vehicle with her two bodyguards. There are four Russians outside of the pub and they look like they are not expecting to see their queen. - Cabana Colombian Cartel Sniper Shooter: I''ve got visual and clear target on the table at 7 o''clock. Waiting for your go Boss. Axel: If you see movement around her, shoot to kill. Never let anyone touch her. Sniper Shooter: Shoot to kill upon movement. Copy. Axel: What is she doing in there? Sniper Shooter: She''s talking to them. Tough crowd in there Boss. Looks unusual looking at Russians treat their queen that way. These old men are getting ready to take over the Russian Mafia. - Belle''s POV We are at Jakoby Quinn''s territory. The boy licker who is the sole heir to the Irish Mafia. They are a family of arms dealer across North America and Europe and they are aligned to the Russian Mafia. We are inside a friendly territory but I thought I''d give them a call to let them know that we are entering their territory to finish a business. They said that they were d to hear from me and that they would send back up just in case I need help. I did not decline their offer but in my mind there is really no need for back up because I am going to finish this as efficiently and as fast as possible. Pregnancy hormones are literally overpowering my body at this moment. I could honestly use a soft bed right now. These traitors think that they would not be found out in doing their meeting outside of the Russian Mafia''s territory. Little do they know that it only takes a few strippers from Zora to locate their secret venue. They even booked a fake birthday celebration to evade suspicion. These people really thought. How pathetic. "Madame, I shoulde in there first." Says Ivan in the driver''s seat. "No. It will just tip them off. I should catch them red-handed so this does not look like we are getting rid of the elders in the Mafia. We have a hierarchy to consider." "The Boss is the Mafia. These motherfuckers are nothing but wannabes. Their families owe their existence to the Boss." Vasily said. "While that is true Vasily, why did you think Niki let them live despite my husband knowing that they doubted him before? It is because Niki respects his father. There are rules that the Mafia is operating on and those rules were made by his father." "As you wish Madame. But I''m under orders to protect you as well, so if I see one wrong move against you from anyone in there, we are going to blow their heads off, that''s a promise." I understand that I.V are just doing their jobs so I just let them be. "Okay." I replied. There are four men outside of the pub. The moment they saw Ivan and Vasily got out of the ck SUV, one of them instantly attempted to go inside. But Ivan got a hold of him while Vasily got the other two before they could even react. I realized just why Niki and Alexei trust I.V with my life. They are strong and fast, and boy do they impose fear on these four. Ivan signaled Vasily to be with me as he takes care of the four outside. Vasily then stood toe to toe with a man who blocked our way towards the booth where the elders are seated. From my position, I can already hear loudughs and cheers from the elder''s table. I can just imagine the obnoxious men yapping and drinking right now, celebrating my family''s apparent downfall. "Move to the side at once." I said calmly. The man looked over Vasily''s shoulder and I swear the moment heid eyes on me, he looked so surprised, he gazed at the other guy quizzically perhaps to check if what he is seeing is urate. Good thing he made the right decision of stepping to the side albeit not removing his eyes off of us. Vasily then ced a chair on the corner of the table by the booth for me to sit. He just stood on my side as Ie face to face with the traitors. They are looking at each other obviously ufortable that a member of the family that they are trying to overthrow is right in front of them, in the flesh. Undeniably, my blood started to boil. "Look at you, celebrating and drinking over here while Niki is in the custody of the FBI and the whole Russian Mafia is on a standstill." I said, trying so hard not to explode in anger. I have to remind myself that these men were in the Mafia long before Niki and Alexei were even born. They were with Papa Vyachev and Papa Viktor before because somehow they trusted these men. They all looked at each other first and then burst outughing. "We are at a birthday party for our boy over there. Is it prohibited to celebrate now?" Said the man with a thick Russian ent. He''s wearing suspenders as his belly bulges over his pants. He reminds me of David from the book shop I used to work for, only that David is dear to me while this man right here is just a nuisance. "Darling, please don''t take this differently. Okay? But you came here uninvited. Real Russian women don''t do that. They stay home, they take care of the family and take care of their husband!" The one who seemed to be the leader of the pack said. He''s talking while gesturing with his hand, faking sincerity. "Now now- just go home and be an ornament as you always are. Okay?" He continued as if dismissing me. What a bunch of cowards! They did not have the balls to do this when Niki and Alexei were beside me on numerous asions before. Now that my husbands are unavable, the misogynist in them is naturally showing. I pity their wives for having obnoxious and ignorant men in their lives. Before Ipletely lose my temper, I had to remind myself why I''m actually here. "Vasily, tell the man who''s celebrating his birthday toe over. I would like to greet him personally." Vasily dragged the kid and made him kneel on my side. "What''s your name?" I asked. "Simeon, Madame Volkov." He answered. "Simeon, I suppose that you have a girlfriend yah?" He looked at me with a puzzled look on his face. "Uh, yes Madame." "I''m going to let you in on a little secret about women Simeon. When your girlfriend or your mother or any woman in your life for that matter asks you a question, always tell the truth because more often than not, they already know the answer. They are just testing you if you''re going, to tell the truth or not." "Madame-" "Also, treat women with respect because they may appear to be quiet and all smiles as they take care of you and the family-" I looked at the misogynist momentarily before continuing. "It turns out that the coffee that you''re drinking every morning used water from the toilet bowl, your toothbrush dipped in the same toilet water and your food sprinkled with arsenic for a slow and undetectable death." The leader of the pack stood up from his seat and throws his napkin on his te and bent down to whisper to my ear. "You are acting like you are so tough Madame Volkov. I hope you walk your talk because when I''m done with you-" He looks down to my belly and then up to my face before continuing. "You will look back and regret this night ever happened. But don''t worry, I will tell them to be quick. You and that poor thing won''t even feel it." I felt the hair on my nape raise in utter shock. This man wants to harm me and my babies. This is exactly what Yuri warned me about if anything happens to Niki and Alexei. Enemies from inside and outside of the organization wille after me and my babies to get rid of the Volkov bloodline. Vasily and Ivan appeared to step forward but I signaled them not to. My hands started to shake in both fear and anger. I looked him in the eyes and all I can see is his true intentions. He meant what he just said. It''s as if I saw ck, I pulled the gun from Ivan''s side and pointed it towards the elder who called me an ornament and threatened my babies'' lives. I''d like to see his face when I shove the tip of the loaded gun down his throat as he says the word ornament again to my face. It caught them all off guard including Ivan and Vasily. I almost scoffed at their funny faces. At this point, I am beyond angry. I feel like I am going mental. There''s only one reason why he can say these things to me. They are without a doubt traitors of the Russian Mafia who want to get rid of me and the babies because of their n to take over the Mafia''s Business. "What? Have you not seen an ornament use a gun before?" I said, confronting him. "Madame Volkov, put your gun down. This is not funny." Says one of the elders. "Who says I''m trying to be funny?" I retorted. I then looked at Simeon while still pointing the gun at the ornament elder''s face. "Now, Simeon, is it really your birthday today or not? Before you say anything, remember what I told you a while ago. Be careful, or someone''s head is going to blow off!" Simeon shook his head in defeat. "No Madame, it''s not my birthday." He replied. I signaled him to go and leave the pub along with the others who don''t want to be involved. I then pushed the tip of the gun deeper onto the man''s face. He sat back in his seat and breathes heavily while looking at me with such contempt. It''s really nice when people underestimate you and threaten you because then, you get to put them in ce in a spectacr way. "You can''t do this. Killing a fellow member of the Mafia without prior authorization from Volkov is punishable by death! That''s in the rules! No one was in contact with Volkov since he was arrested. You, woman, don''t have your husband''s permission! What''s written in the rules is absolute. There are no exceptions!" "Fucking hell Pyotr! You sound like a fucking sissy. My wife doesn''t need any man''s permission. Not from me, not even from my brother." My body froze as I hear the voice that I have not heard for a long time. The voice of the man that has always been there for me through the roughest times. The man who eased my heartaches and wiped my tears away when things seemed to fall apart. The man who never lets go of me. My heart started to bang inside my ribcage as he spoke again, "My princess-" I looked over my shoulder and my eyes started to well with tears. I wasn''t able to contain myself so I wrapped my other hand around his back while I rest my head on his chest. I have missed his warmth. I have missed him. "Alexei." "Hi." He said so softly, as he intertwines his arms around me in a tight embrace. The kind of embrace that doesn''t want to let go. "I''m sorry if you had to do this. I''m sorry if I fell asleep. I''m sorry about your birthday. I''m sorry about the stupid things that I said." "Alexei- we made mistakes. What''s important is you''re here and you''re alive. You''re awake." He holds my face and reaches for my lips for a long and sweet kiss. His lips are so warm against mine, taking my breath away in each soft bite. He lets out a smile against my lips, "Something is awake alright." He said naughtily, referring to his manhood. "Alexei!" I smack him on his shoulder which made the man chuckle. "I love you princess." He said, without a care that we are literally surrounded by our people and enemies alike. "I love you Alexei." "Princess, you can put the gun down. I got this." He said, referring to my other arm that is still holding the gun pointing towards ornament whose real name apparently is Pyotr. Alexei signaled his men to take the traitors out of the pub. They were forced into one of our SUVs and I think I know what the fate of those men will be soon enough. The love of my life held my hand tightly on our way outside. He looks like he just did not wake up from same time? "Where are we going Alexei?" "We are going to the boathouse, but before that, we''ll just pick someone up." I did not inquire further since at this point my adrenaline has subsided and my pregnancy hormones kicked in. Perhaps now I feel at peace because Alexei is here. And I know that everything is going to be alright soon because the brothers always have each other''s back. Alexei will find a way to get Niki out of this mess. I am a hundred percent sure of that. Alexei ordered I.V and the rest of his men to go their way and not follow us. These happen very rarely and when it does, the moment bes very special. Like our date in the town where our safe house is located. There were no bodyguards- just me, Niki and Alexei. Before anything else, I made sure that the things I got from the secret safe which I n on gifting my fatherter on was transferred to our car. I am sure Papa will love these as he collects guns and arms of rare origin. As we pass through Brooklyn bridge, Alexei''s one arm is already in my tummy and asionally down my delicate parts. Good thing the car is heavily tinted so no camera would catch us doing things. Several minutester we arrived at what looked like the back of a government establishment. "Alexei, who are we picking up?" "Him." He replied, referring to the man going out of the back entrance who looks scarily familiar. His silhouette alone made my heart jump in my chest. I wasn''t able to contain myself so I got out of the car hurriedly and waited for him to appear from the dark. He is wearing a ck leather jacket, white shirt and jeans. I wanted to run towards him but for some reason, I feel like my feet are glued to the ground. "Niki?" I covered my mouth to suppress myself from sobbing. He came to me and instantly kissed me on my lips. He held my jaw with both of his hands and kissed me, deeply. "Baby, promise me you won''t run to me again if there are guns pointed at me?" "I love you too Niki." I retorted, purposely evading his request. He smiled against my lips and shook his head in defeat. "Oh, you will be the death of me." Alexei cleared his throat as he leans back on the hood of his car like in a friggin magazine cover. Even in darkness, the man''s electrifying charm is unbelievable. Niki and Alexei reunited right in front of me and I could not be happier. They hugged and kissed each other on the cheeks, showing their unconditional love as brothers. Although, I feel like Niki looks the happiest seeing his Alexei well and awake from a life-threatening ident. Our ride on the way to the boathouse was the first time that I feltplete again. I feel like there''s not a void in my heart right now. Niki, Alexei and I are together again. I''m back on Alexei''sp in the front passenger seat while Niki drives. The man is now all smiles as he y bites my shoulders, my breasts and my arms. The Russian Mafia Boss on the other hand is We were having the time of our lives when I noticed that Niki is ncing curiously at the rearview mirror and the side mirror in intervals as if noticing something from the back. He and Alexei then talked in Russian as the other brother dials his phone. "What''s wrong?" I asked. "Someone''s following us." Niki answered. Instead of getting worried I actually got annoyed. How dare them rudely interrupt our moment! I stepped over to the back of the car carefully and noticed a very suspicious acting vehicle following us at a distance. "Alexei, they are not our people right?" "No. Our people are in the boathouse now." I grabbed the bag full of guns I.V and I took from the warehouse and gave one long gun to Alexei and the other one I clutched around Niki''s side just in case he needs it. "Niki baby, you got this? Alexei, if you need more ammunition just tell me I brought enough." "Princess-" He looked at me quizzically at first and then a huge smile of wonder came afterwards. "What? We can never be too sure! Inside this vehicle is worth the whole Russian Mafia and the friggin Conglomerate. I literally have the future of the Volkov family inside me right now. So chop chop missies because I am not losing the both of you and my babies tonight. Not now, not ever! We''ve been through enough and I''m so friggin tired of people wanting to kill us! By now, it''s either them or us in the grave. And you know what?" I said, bending over in the middle of the two. "No Volkov is gonna die tonight." "Fucking hell princess, yes!" Says Alexei like a proud daddy.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. "Who are you woman? Where is my wife? Where did you take her?" Says Niki followed by a boomingugh of crazy. What is wrong with these two? They look like they are not bothered at all while I''m here, already in survival mode! I nced at the back again and the vehicle is still following us although they are a little far now. "You know what, I have an idea." I took the box where the rocketuncher thingy is stored and I carefully ced its ammunition the size of a nine inches baseball bat inside the hull. Good thing I got the chance to ask Vasily how to operate this thing back at the secret ce. I opened the sunroof of the car and asked Niki to slow down a little bit so I can have a good aim at the vehicle following us. "Hey hey hey- princess. No no no!" "What the fuck! Baby! Put that down! Oh fuck!" The moment half of my body is out of the car, I leaned back a little bit for support as I take my aim pointing towards the moving vehicle. To my dismay however, the car following us swerved to the right and then to the left in clear panic. The men from inside jumped out of the vehicle one after the other. Even the driver got out whilst the engine is on, crashing the car to the side in the gutter. - Phone conversation on car speaker between Axel, Niki and Alexei. Axel: Are you fucking serious! You were gonna let her blow up my people? Niki: I mean, had I known it was your people, I would not have stopped her. Axel: Fuck you Volkov! (Short silence) Niki: Thank you De Alba. I know what you did while I was away. It does not go unnoticed. I owe you one. Axel: Yeah yeah- Alexei: Should I get you two a room or what? Axel: Fuck you Alexei. Alexei: (Chuckles) How sweet. Axel: So, you''re pushing through with the shifting of the wolf? Niki: (Gazes at Belle''s reflection on the rear view mirror. His wife-sound asleep) Yes. After all that''s happened. It''s the right time. Axel: Well, good luck and have fun changing diapers for the next few years. I wish to never have the same fate as you. Niki: You could only wish to be in my shoes right now De Alba. Axel: She''s my wife too you know. Niki: Fuck you De Alba. Axel: Haha. Congrattions Alexei. Wee to the old man''s club. See you at the Conglomerate table. - Boat House Belle is sleeping in the back of the car guarded by Ivan, Vasily and basically hundreds of mafia men outside the boat house. Almost every one from the Russian Mafia is here to witness the shifting of the wolf. A ceremony tattooing the head of the wolf on Alexei''s neck, officially inducting him as the Boss of the Russian Mafia. The mood in the air is solemn. Niki is sitting across Alexei whose tattoo has just been finished. They are surrounded by the elders and other high ranking men of the Russian Mafia. Matushka Irene is on one side, teary eyed as she witnesses Niki embracing Alexei. Niki holds him on his face and kissed his cheeks a couple of times before connecting his forehead onto him. Matushka knows that the brothers'' love for each other made them who they are now. In her mind, wherever part of hell Vyachev and Viktor are in right now, she is sure that they are proud of their sons. As Niki and Alexei walk out of the boathouse, the Mafiya men waiting outside fired their guns in the air in cheers for the new Boss of the Russian Mafia- Alexei Viktor Volkov. Chapter 48 Chapter 48 Belle''s POV Alexei''s chest pressed against my back as he wraps his arm over my shoulder reaching for my breast and squeezing my hard n!pple tightly. While I''m on my knees, his other hand forces my legs and thighs apart to allow his fingers to dig gently into my slit. He pushed one finger in my p*ssy hole and then drags it back to my cl!t in circr motion like a man ying his fingers around the mouth of a ss of hard liquor. "Volkov owns this p*ssy. Only Volkov, Yah?" Alexei asked, his breath fanning the back of my ear. "Yes. Volkov owns this p*ssy-only Volkov owns this p*ssy." I replied under my breath. Right across the bed is Nik''s smokey silhouette, the dim lighting from themp next to him and the one tiny red dot from the camera mounted to the stand, recording. The man is still wearing his leather jacket, pants and white shirt while quietly watching his brother touch his wife. Alexei removes his hand from my slit, licks his wet fingers and then inserts them inside my mouth. "Spit." Hemands while his other hand is now holding my neck in a chokehold. He squeezes my throat tightly, forcing me to gasp for air in momentary panic. Alexei instantly halted and loosened his grip. "Shit. I''m sorry princess." Why is he stopping? Is he kidding me? I want this. I crave for this. I don''t want him to hold back just because I''m pregnant. I want him to ravage me! I want him to fvck me so hard until it''s physically impossible for me to walk in the morning. Why would I want lukewarm sex when I can have zing hot fornication with not only one but two friggin Volkovs?! "F*ck me like a Volkov or leave Alexei." I retorted tly. Niki snorts, the smoke blows out of his mouth and nose as he giggles mockingly at his brother while pressing his cigarette on the ashtray. Alexei was not able to say a single word but I know I just hit a very sensitive nerve in his Volkov veins. He pushes me sideward onto the bed and drops on top of me. His eyes bore into mine so intensely that I started to feel nervous. Yikes. It''s quite obvious that taunting him did not sit well with the newly hailed Boss of the Russian Mafia. I''m definitely gonna get what I have asked for. I wonder if we have a wheelchair ready for me tomorrow? "So? This p*ssy is not gonna f*ck itself daddy." The words rolled out of my mouth so spontaneously, I too am surprised by my boldness. His lips pulled to the side slightly as he removes himself from on top of me. He pulled the duvet from the bed and throws all the pillows away, all the while holding on to the side of his rib that has binding from his injuries. Now that I realized how he''s literally struggling to move because of some broken bones in his body, I wanted to give myself a good smack in the head for forcing the situation. "Alexei-" "Did I fucking tell you to speak, Arabe?" He growls with such arrogance, I do not know if I''m gonna be amused or be worried or both. I bit my lower lip and chose not to say another word. My heart started to bang inside my ribcage as he removes his shirt and boxer shorts off revealing his perfectly sculpted abdominal muscles and his totally inked right arm and neck. The freshly tattooed head of the wolf now sits prominently in the same exact ce as that of Niki''s tattoo on his neck. And then, lo and behold, his arousal revealed exactly how mad Alexei Viktor Volkov is at this very moment. Butterflies run amok at the pit of my stomach as the rush of excitement and fear overwhelm my body. He fished his belt from the floor and went to his brother to take the other Volkov''s belt. The clinking of the material in both ends of the belts made my heart thump in my chest as I am undeniably thrilled. Alexei took my wrists, fastened them firmly and ties the other end to the poles on the headboard of his bed effectively immobilizing my arms. Now that I am in this position, for some reason, I suddenly feel bare and exposed. I realized I am not that bold after all. My insecurity surely knows when to ruin the friggin moment! I mean, look at these two. They are the most gorgeous men I have ever seen in my life and they have an overflowing charm to match it with. And they are the most loyal to me, their wife. Meanwhile, I am here,ying in bed, very pregnant and looking like a starfish. I closed my legs, curled them together and looked sideways. I did not even realize that the two are already standing by the bed looking at me with a puzzled look on their faces. Niki who is now half-naked, intertwines his arms in front of him while Alexei''s hands are on his waist, his head tilted to the side like he was trying to figure out what''s happening. "Uhm. Princess?" "Baby, we''re ready." "Uh can we do this until I give birth? My belly is just right there you know." I replied, heat crawling up my face. "Yes we know, and so is that p*ssy. Now spread those sexy legs." Niki retorted. The two sat down the bed, Niki to my right while Alexei is to my left. Nikipletely gets naked while his brother is brushing aside strands of my hair from my face. "The belts?" I asked. "Nah. The belts stay. Sometimes, I like you this way. Restrained. Being a good bad girl." Alexei replied teasingly. "Well, sometimes I''d like the two of you to kiss but..." I tried my luck again to see them kiss but Niki quickly replies. "How about we stick to the pussy?" He said, obviously evading my suggestion. While I thought we are just talking, I realized that the two are already doing their own thing. Alexei licks my n!pples while sucking it like his brother usually does when he wants to sleep every night. His other hand is reaching for my other n!pple, squeezing it. Niki is now spreading my legs apart, tracing the tip of his tongue in my slit. I can literally feel his warm wet tongue dip in my hole and then dragging it up to my cl!t in repeated motion like he''s licking ice cream. My toes curled as Niki buries half of his scruffy face top my pearl in all friggin direction while his brother stimtes my n!pples like he''s been deprived of food. At this point, I want to scream in pleasure but I know very well that Yuri, Boris, Dimitri and Andrey are all out there sleeping. To my surprise, Alexei spreads my legs even wider so that my feet are already pointing upwards. "You are so fucking beautiful." He said as he looks at me with his mouth hriously shiny. "Hey Boss, you have something on your-" Alexei said teasingly, gesturing to his brother that his mouth is sparkling with a mixture of my p*ssy juice and his saliva. Niki however looked unbothered as he returns to eating me out. I can already feel my cl!t pulsate. Admittedly, pregnancy made me extra sensitive especially down there. I swear, even the slightest touch makes me whimper. Being apart from my husbands for a while did not help my raging sexual libido. Now that I am with them feels like quenching the thirst. At this point, my legs started to tremor as I was about toe. "Alexei, Niki-" I called out under my breath. My back arched as chills run down my spine like tiny volts of electric current flowing through my veins. Everything around me turned blurry. There are colorful circles floating around as my world moved in slow motion. With eyes half shut, I came in Niki''s mouth in a blissful release. ~ After slurping my slit and making sure his tongue gets to explore every square inch of my vulva, Niki climbed on my side, kissed me on my lips and dug his tongue into my mouth. Alexei looks at his brother with a cheeky smile on his face before removing himself from me and untying me from the bed. "Sit on my face. Come smother me." Alexei orders like he''s just asking me to hand him the butter or something. He''s sitting on the floor while his head is resting on the bed. He signals me to be on my knees on the edge of the bed to straddle his face. I have said this many times before and I''m going to say it again, I am the luckiest woman in the world. I guess there is indeed no rest for the wicked. So I slowly lowered down and sat on his face carefully as I know I am not particrly lightweight especially now that I am very pregnant. I knelt, my legs apart as my bum cheekspletely envelopes his face, his veiny hands hold my thighs in ce. Yikes, this man wants to die. Imagine the horror of telling the police that my husband, Alexei Volkov died happy in between my thighs, doing what he loves best. I couldn''t help but grind my ass to give the man some breathing space but he just pulled me deeper against his face like a maniac. My goodness. "Alexei." I said, warning him that he could actually get hurt, pop his neck or literally not breath. The man just got out of aa but now he wants to suffocate on my p*ssy. "Baby, rx. The man is having the time of his life. He''ll tap out if he wants air." Said Niki teasingly but his brother just flipped him the bird as if getting insulted by the fact that he needs to tap out or give up eating mydy parts. I must say, Alexei''s tongue ys with my cl!t so skillfully I know I am definitely getting another orgasm. I swear, his tongue feels like a gatling gun, licking my p*ssy hole and then my ass in rapid motion. Just when I thought it could not get any better, heps my slit so good that the smacking of his mouth against my skin makes this scandalous chewing noise. "Oh Alexei, yes. Ah, yes." Were only the words I could muster at the moment because I could not find the words to describe how good this is. I don''t know if I''m gonna cry or scream in pleasure. I had to cover my mouth with my palm as Ie very close to the edge. He reaches for my breasts and gives them a good groping and mashing and then pinches my nipples hard enough to double the out of this world sensation. This went on in a blissfully carnal way until I could not hold it any longer. Shit. Shit. Shit. I am going toe. My body trembled on top of Alexei, my knees involuntarily shake as I reach another peak. The stream of wet and warm cum drips down his mouth like nectar as he finishes off by yfully sucking my pearl. I plopped myself to bed, still trying to catch my breath. I looked to my side seeing Alexei licking his lips while resting his head on his knuckles. We kissed each other deeply, as he makes me taste myself in his mouth. "I never thought I could taste you like this again. I thought we have lost you forever." "Go racing with your bike again and you will surely lose me forever." "I''m sorry." He replied like a child, hugging me tight and burying his face on my neck. "No Diana, Stephanie, Esmeralda or whatever their names are. You are not gonna ride them again." I said, scolding him. The man almost died because he raced without regard to his life. It is just wise to remove him away from his bikes, albeit indefinitely. "There''s no Stephanie or Esmeralda." He answered in muffled words. I just roll my eyes at him. Men and their bikes. In the corner of my eye, I see Niki mounting the camera back to the stand and then joining us in bed. He does exactly what Alexei is doing. He nestled on my side and rested his face on my neck. "Hey baby." He whispered, fanning my ear. "Hmm?" "I''m still good to go." He said so amusingly like a teenage boy. I bit my lower lip to suppress a giggle. I know the man is still horny because his manhood is stabbing my side like it has its own life. Same as his brother''s, only that Alexei''s pointing upward like a friggin gpole. "Hmm, what about this?" I asked, looking at my belly. "I''m sure they won''t mind, right buddies? Listen, if you see something poking in there, don''t be rmed, it''s just your Pa. Just duck and swim away." "Nooooooo! Niki! You''re disgusting!" I almost screamed in horror. "Hahahaha! Shit." Alexei is rolling on his side whileughing at his mental of a brother. Seriously, what is wrong with this man? Without a word, I swung my hand and pped Niki on his face as hard as I can. He res at me, looking stunned. His cheek is now as red as a tomato as he looks at me so intensely. This is one of the few ways how the devil in Niki awakens. He gets so turned on when I p him that bruises are guaranteed right after. "Woops." I scooted over and pretended to bite my nail, "Daddies, I have been a bad bad girl." I said while looking at Alexei. And just like that, his hazel eyes turned so dark I know I am in trouble- in good trouble. Niki scooted back on my side and held my jaw tightly. He then collected my hair together and forced my face to the side as he ps my lips and my face with his member. "Open your mouth." He orders. I did not oblige but instead I squeezed my lips together just to rile him up even more. However it did not take long because my lips parted in surprise when Alexei inserted his manhood in my slit-a moan escaped my mouth. I reached for Niki''s rigidly upright member and slowly brush the tip of my tongue from his balls, up to the very tip of his shaft which is now glistening with pre-cum. I made sure to show him how I lick it while he looks down at me with those ridiculously beautiful dark green eyes. My hand moved up and down while I wet the underside of his member all the while holding the urge to moan as I Alexei pounds into the walls of my vagina. "F*ck." Niki mutters. I took this as a cue that I am actually doing it right so I continue moving my hand up and down while s*cking his balls and brushing his under-shaft with my lips. "Shit. Don''t make mee yet baby. Not yet." Niki curses under his breath as he removes himself from my mouth. Being a good girl that I am, I did not stop. I grabbed his manhood again and slid his shaft deep into my mouth until I felt his head hit the back of my throat. My eyes glistened involuntarily. "F*cking hell! F*ck!" Niki eximed like he is about to lose his mind. I continue sucking and licking him until his eyes roll back in pleasure that all he could do is curse. He then speaks to Alexei in Russian for a while before the two made me be in all fours while they exchange ces. This time, Alexei bent one knee while the other foot supported his weight. I was going to hold him but he swatted my hand off of his manhood and took control of my head instead. "Show me your tongue. Yeah. That''s it." He ordered while tapping the head of his shaft on my tongue, making a smacking wet sound. He then started to jerk his hips as his manhood goes in and out of my mouth. The man is now f*cking my face, controlling my head and how deep he could go. My eyes are already watery as I gasp for air gagging. "Look at that, my poor princess can''t take it anymore? Huh?" He said, holding my jaw tightly, y mocking me. I snorted, "Is this all you''ve got Mr. Volkov? -O!" I squealed as I was startled by the wringing of the belt against my bum. Oh my goodness that hurts so bad! "Bad kitty! " Niki said yfully as he prepares to hit me once again. I bit my lower lip in anticipation as I will never be caught squealing again for taking a hit from either of the two. The belt swooshed and then hit my bum with such intensity, I know that''s going to bruise. But why do I love this so much is beyond me. I looked at the two with a smile on my face and continued taunting them. "You hit like you just got out of Niki''s lips pulled to the side as he speaks to his brother in Russian once again. This time, heys down on his back at the edge of the bed while his legs are hanging by the corner. He pulled me to him and pointed his manhood to my slit, then gestured that I sit on it. I pulled his still throbbing member and slowly inserted it in my hole. A moan escaped my mouth when his impressive girth pushes against the walls of mydy parts. Niki then reaches for my breasts and pinches my erect n!pples as I pull up and down on him. He holds my tummy in one hand and whispered how beautiful I am as my breasts bounce up and down in front of his face. It''s been a while since I had this feeling in between my thighs but as always, it is euphoric and dangerously addicting. Alexei made me arch my back more, pulling my bum towards him as he prepares to mount on my back. He ps my ass cheeks first and then spreads them apart to make room for his manhood. "Rx princess. Shhh. That''s it. Good girl. Such a good f*cking girl." He whispered as he eases in. I reckon he can feel me tense up while doing this again that''s why he is being very gentle but at the same time sounding like a total creep. At this point, I did not even have to move. Niki and Alexei are pounding me from both sides, the only thing that I could ever do is part my lips and savor each and every stroke and p. Alexei pulled my hair back while his brother''s hand is wrapped around my neck and the other squeezing my breast. The body heating from the two and the fullness that I am feeling under, Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. make me want to scream. It''s like having to feel the most beautiful feeling in the world and being tortured at the same time. "Yes, yes, ah yes Niki, Alexei." Niki ps my breasts as they bounce in front of his face and then he suckles on my nipples painfully hard as if expecting that something wille out of them. He just gave me a cheeky smile when he noticed that I know what he was up to. He then continues thrusting upward while I can hear his brother curse under his breath a few times already. Their manhood slid in and out of me in perfect sync at first and then in fast intervals like friggin machines! My eyes roll back as I held on to Niki''s chest, digging my nails onto his skin. Oh my goodness! I think I am going to lose my mind! "F*ck, I''m close." Alexei eximed. "Ya tozhe. Come with us baby." He continued. They did not even have to say it, I was really gonnae. I just nodded at Niki, heat crawling from my core, up to my chest and my face. Alexei grunts and convulses on my back as he reaches his climax. He thrusts his hard member as deep as he could while holding on to my waist tightly. Niki''s neck veins are now visible as his head falls back in pleasure. He held on to my sides and arches his spine to reach deeply into my p*ssy hole. He grunts under his breath as he makes his release. At this point, my body shook, so I held on to Niki'' chest as I reach my peak. I whimpered when I felt his warm juice drip down my slit and mingle with my own wetness. For a while, I could not hear anything-not even my own heartbeat like I have turned temporarily deaf. My world stopped turning as circles of light of different colors float around me in suspended motion. ~ Alexei''s Penthouse The boys are in the kitchen area drinking their coffee and having breakfast. They overhear the giggles Dimitri: (Drinks his coffee, smiles from ear to ear) Isn''t that a beautiful thing to hear? Ah, this is gonna be a wonderful day! Andrey: Let''s hope those three will finally get a break from all the shit that''s been going on. Yuri: If we did a better job in finding that bastard Sergey Yvanislov, Belle wouldn''t have to go through hell. It''s all our fault. Dimitri: (Furrows his eyebrows) Belle? You call the wife of our Bosses by her first name? That''s oddly intriguing. Yuri: (Shook his head in annoyance) Boris: (Snorts as he stood up from his seat) Dimitri: What''s that supposed to mean Boris? Brother, you gotta tell us. Boris: (Smiles teasingly while feeding a goat. He''s nning to give goatee to his Madame as a wee home presentter) Yuri walks away and stood by the windows overlooking the New York City skyline. Andrey stood beside his brother while his hands are in his pockets. Andrey: Tell me you''re not considering living with the Boss and the wife in the safe house? Yuri: (silent) Andrey: No one knows how long the Big Boss needs toy low with his family. It could be months or could take years, hell it could take forever! The Mafia needs you here in New York. Yuri: No. You need me here in New York because you''re itching to go back to Moscow Andrey. Just go. No one is preventing you to leave. Andrey: If I leave, Alexei will need you here to watch over the Mafia because his time will be spent mostly in VH ironing out the businesses. The Chechen kid (nces at Dimitri) is not yet ready to do your job. He still has a lot to learn. Yuri: It''s not up to me Andrey. Andrey: Just think about it before you do some stupid shit with the Madame again. You know, if I think about it, you''re a fucking dead man a long time ago. Why are you still here after doing one of the most unforgivable sins in the Mafia? Yuri: Go back to Moscow, Andrey. Andrey: You are ying a very dangerous game, brother. Don''t y with the wolves because they will eat you alive. And you know damn well I''m not talking about Valkyr and Petrushka. ~ Belle''s POV I can already overhear the menughing and talking in Russianing from the living area in Alexei''s penthouse suite. After a very long and wild night with the two, I had a well-deserved sleep and a cold shower in the morning to calm my very sore body. When I woke up, Niki and Alexei gave me a rxing massage which ended up in another round of earthshaking sex. I chose to wear a sexy, perfect fitting, white long sleeve, knee-length, off shoulder maternity dress and pink high heels which I''m going to pair with a long cream-colored jacketter on. I made a few spritz of perfume with light floral scent on my wrists and below my ears. I then shook my head a little to dangle my diamond earrings and then pose to see how I friggin shine in this diamond ne and my numerous rings. When I woke up, these babies were already on my side in bed. As I near the living area where they are waiting for me, I realized that they are talking about how the men who were following usst night, jumped out of their SUV the moment I pointed the rocket was as serious as it got. Niki and Alexei instantly noticed me the moment I stepped out of the bedroom. The funny thing is, they have the same exact reaction- their lips are parted slightly while their eyes are scanning me from head to foot even though Alexei is on his phone talking to someone. Their faces lit up like children with presents on Christmas morning. "Hey." I said, wrapping my arms around Niki''s waist. "Sorry for making you wait." He kissed me on my cheeks and then my neck, sniffing me like a weirdo. Alexei huddled up with us and kisses me on my lips, inhaling my scent like weirdo number two. "You''re hot as hell." Alexei whispered. I just smiled coyly because I know it''s true. I can feel my face heat up in embarrassment since the other boys are literally just in front of us standing awkwardly while the two shower me with affection. "Let''s go?" I asked excitedly. This is such a good day for the Volkov family. We are going back to the mansion. Alexei got out ofa with noplications. Niki and the boys got off the hook because they could not find evidence directly linking them to the crimes in which they are being used of. The babies are safe and are due toe out very soon. Niki, Alexei and I are back together. And the Russian Mafia is as strong as ever. Sergey Yvanislov may still be out there but I am quite positive that sooner thanter, Niki and Alexei will find him, and the Pa''s deaths will finally be avenged. They have already found the mole in the Conglomerate and he is now in Axel De Alba''s custody. I did not inquire further but my husbands said that we should be very careful for as long as Sergey is on the loose. Dimitri cleared his throat as he was trying to say something, "Baby Madame,-uhm I mean, Madame, Boris got you something." He looked at the big man teasingly. Boris just grunts at Dimitri and shook his head as if denying it. He then steps to the side as if covering something from behind his feet. "What is it Boris? Show me." I can see that the rest of the boys have smiles on their faces as they look at the not so gentle giant in amusement. "Meeeeee." My heart jump from my chest when I realized what it is. Oh my! It''s the baby goat I stole-I mean I purchased from the old crazydy. "Goatee! Come here baby." I eximed. He lightly pulled goatee''s lead towards my direction. Now that I can take a closer look, I realized that there''s something off about it. I almost burst out crying when I did not see a male organ on the goat. It looks exactly like goatee but it''s not him. "What''s wrong baby. You have goatee back. I thought you wanted to see it?" Said Niki. "That''s not goatee Niki! Goatee is a boy! My goat is a boy! Not a female goat!" "Oh-shit." Inserted Dimitri. The boys look like they''ve been drenched in cold water the moment they realized that I caught their bullshit. They actually look like they regretted what they have done and so I just let it slide for now. Boris however, will not hear thest of this for the rest of his life. Niki confessed to me that my poor innocent goatee got hit by our SUV in the driveway back in the Mansion and guess who was driving the SUV? ~ In the parking bay of the building, Alexei and Niki exined to me that from this moment forward, we have to split up every time we travel. Either I ride with Niki or Alexei but not in the same vehicle with the three of us together for security purposes. That is why Alexei will take the other SUV while Niki and I will take the other one, with two other vehicles escorting us. "I''ll be right behind you okay?" Alexei said while brushing some strands of hair off of my face. He talked to Niki in Russian before he got inside his SUV with Dimitri and I.V. In our SUV, Boris is the designated driver, Andrey on his passenger seat and Yuri are seated to my left while my husband is on my right side. As we exit the building, I noticed that Yuri''s knuckles are scraped and bruised. I did not even bother asking how the man got it because really it could be anything with these Russian men. While Niki''s hand or on my thigh, I reached for thepartment where they usually put the first aid kit together with my anti-allergy meds. I then took Yuri''s hand and ced it on the armrest so I can tend to his wounds. "It''s fine, Belle. It''s going to heal on its own." I just ignored the man since I''m already wrapping a cloth binding around his knuckles after applying antiseptic on his wounds. "Thank you." He said almost whispering. I noticed for a split second that he narrowed his eyes on the rearview mirror as if looking at Boris or perhaps Andrey. I just smiled at him and tapped the back of his hand lightly before going back to holding Niki''s hand. Just when I was about to take a nap on my husband''s shoulder, I noticed the boys'' phones vibrated at the same time. Niki got a phone call from Alexei and they talked in Russian for a while before he ordered Boris something. "Niki? What''s happening?" I looked in the back and saw the other two SUVs turn to the opposite direction. At this point, my heart started to bang inside my ribcage. Chapter 49 Chapter 49 Somewhere outside New York City. Axel arrived in a limo to his uncle''s property. His men went out of their cars and immediately disarmed Juan Pablo''s people. One of the men opened the limo door to give way to Sebastian Axel De Alba, son of the deceased Antonio De Alba, the boss of the Cabana Cartel-Colombia''s most powerful drug cartel and the other half of the Conglomerate. Juan Pablo De Alba is at thekeside quietly fishing. He heard the arrival of his nephew but he chose to sit still, knowing exactly why Axel is here. The Cartel Boss sat across his uncle, looking straight at the stillness of the water. Juan Pablo: Your father and I used toe here to n our take over of New York and the east coast from the son of a bitch Vyachev. He would always sit there, impatiently tapping his shoes on the wood and he doesn''t even care if he catches fish or not. Between him and I, Antonio was always the thinker, the nner. He had this-(points at his head while looking at Axel) and I, I was your father''s attack dog. His executioner. I did most of his dirty work for him and now for you, Sebastian. Axel: (Wears his ck leather gloves) Where is Sergey Yvanislov? Juan Pablo: (Momentary silence) He is on his way to carry out our original n. Get rid of the Russians, control the conglomerate and take over New York. The Cabana Cartel will soon supply the whole of east coast and every European connection they have. We, Sebastian, are going to be the most powerful crime family in North and South America! Axel: We, as a family? (Stood up and signals one of his men to ce a gun on top of the small cooler right next to Juan Pablo) I found this in the possession of the sicario you sent to kill mest night. It has the prints of Sergey Yvanislov. (Wraps a cord around his fingers on both hands and then suddenly strangles his uncle. The man gasps for air as he struggles to remove the cord from around his neck) And you know what else I found out Tio? It''s the same gun that killed my father. Your own brother! (Axel snarles as he squeezes the string tighter. Juan Pablo''s feet il as he desperately gasps for air) You are using Sergey to kill Volkov and you hired a hitman to kill me with a tainted gun to frame Sergey. (He lets go of the cord, took the gun and watches his uncle crawl to get away from him) Where is Sergey? Juan Pablo: (He''s in New York. He hired private contractors to kidnap Volkov''s wife in exchange for his daughter, Yrina. (Chuckles mockingly when he saw Axel dial his phone) It''s toote Sebastian! Axel: No, T¨ªo, it''s toote for you. (Axel points his gun and shoots his uncle in his head. Blood drips down his face as he falls lifeless onto the pavement) Por mi Padre. ~ Featured song: Wolves by Sam Tinnesz Belle''s POV Content ? N?velDrama.Org. Our SUVs sped like there''s no tomorrow on the way to the garage where we once had rendezvous sex. It still looks old and dingy just like thest time that we were here. No one would ever suspect that this ce hides guns and high-end vehicles of the Russian Mafia. My lips parted when Boris and Andrey removed the covers of the four cars parked inside the garage. Yup, these are Volkov''s cars alright. Even Andrey whistled in awe looking at the four shiny jet ck luxury vehicles light up one by one in front of him all of which are armored and imprable by regr and even high caliber rounds. "Damn, Boss. These are slick!" Said Andrey, his eyes are sparkling like a child with presents on Christmas morning. "The Boss and Dimitri were able to lose the tail but it will not be thest one. We must take you and Belle to the safe house as soon as possible. The chopper is waiting for you at Artan Bogdani''s shipyard. You were right, VH ispromised and the Mansion is too far from here to take off. As a precaution, Artan offered his help for Belle." Yuri said to Niki. Niki did not respond but instead signaled the boys to give us privacy which they obliged instantly. "Niki. Is it Sergey? Is it him?" He just nods and held my face with his palms to face him. "Baby, it''s time. Remember what we have agreed on before? If anything bad happens to me today-" "No!" I did not let him finish. At this point, my eyes started to well with tears. I know what he''s going to say and I don''t want to hear it. I can''t believe that we have actually reached this point. "It''s okay. Everything is going ording to n, except that he is now putting a target on you, that''s why I want you to leave for the safe house without me." "No! I''m staying here with you and Alexei!" "Baby, please listen to me. My brother and I have to do this. Sergey killed my father and he killed Alexei''s father. That bastard put bullets through their heads from the back. He may not have ruined the Mafia but he has ruined my family. And now with you in my life, he tried to kill you and our babies using Victoria and the traitor in the Conglomerate. When that did not work out, he wants to take you away from me so he can get his daughter back. I am not going to let that happen. Not with you, not on my watch." "But Niki please, there must be another way!" Hends a long sweet kiss on my lips and then connected his forehead to mine. "I love you more than anything in this world. More than my life, Belle. I see no point in life if I lose you." The tears that have been threatening to fall moments ago are now flowing down my cheeks. I am so torn between letting him do this so he can finally exact retribution for the death of Papa Vyachev or convince him toe with me and Alexei to the safe house and let our people find Sergey. I know that Niki and Alexei have been waiting for this moment toe. They have carried this in their hearts for the longest time. Now that revenge is within their reach, I do not want to be the one to deprive them of that chance. Lest, I regret it in the future. "Niki, if you do this, promise me you''lle home to me? Promise me?" "I promise, cross my heart, hope Artan dies." "Niki!" I smack him on his chest but he just chuckles. How can this man think of these kinds of things when we are actually in the middle of a friggin crisis? "I''m kidding." He said. "That''s not funny. Why do you hate Artan so much?" "Because if my brother and I were to die, I know you''d choose Artan." He replied without a hint of doubt or hesitation. He looks at me intently, the man is actually probing for my reaction. "Well, you and your brother better not die then Niki." I retorted. I see this as an opportunity to give him a little bit of a push to put his mind back to destroying Sergey so he can never hurt our family ever again. Niki''s dark green eyes turned even darker and I know that I got into the man''s head. It''s a matter of fact that of all the men that we had issues with, it is Artan whom he had the most serious rift, to a point that it almost broke us apart. "Let''s go." He signals Yuri and the boys to get in the vehicles while he opens the car door for me and then fastens my seatbelt. He went around to the driver''s seat, puts his leather gloves on and adjusted the rear view mirror with such suave, I had to bite my lower lip to stop myself from thinking unholy acts. Why does he have to be this good looking, sophisticated and dangerous at the same time? The man is literally trouble, and yet I could not get enough of him even though he''s already absolutely mine. Our convoy of jet ck sports cars left the garage and sped like we stole something. The engines revved and roared in the streets on our way to Artan''s shipyard. We are not even halfway to our destination, the uninvited guests have shown up in three vehicles. My heart started to beat at an abnormal pace but my husband looks like he''s already in the zone to eliminate whoever gets in our way. He looks at the rearview mirror while he tightens his grip on the stirring wheel. Yuri, Andrey and Boris are already engaging in a speed chase and gunfight with the people sent by Sergey. They are trying toe for the vehicle behind us, probably thinking that Niki and I are there-only to be surprised by Boris'' series of grenades. They made huge sessive sts and left one armored vehicle burning. Oh my goodness, Boris. Two other SUVs are nking us from both sides but they just could not seem to get a hold of us. Niki is such a skillful driver that all I could ever do is watch him do his magic. "Hey baby, hold on tight okay? It''s gonna be a rough ride." "You know that I like it rough, baby." I replied as if I have any other choice at the moment. I could already feel my abdomen constrict. If this goes on, I think I''m going tobor earlier than expected. He curses under his breath. I did not know at first what has gotten into him but the moment he reaches for my hand and ced it on top of his crotch, I instantly knew what''s up. "Niki! What is wrong with you? We are in the middle of a gunfight! There are bullets flying everywhere but you-you-" I could not even bring myself to say it. It''s just too incredibly mental. "That''s how hard you affect me." "Okay! Now focus." "Yes Ma''am." He responded with a naughty smirk on his face. My heart is already banging inside my ribcage as I hold on tight to the handle. Niki swerved the car to the right, ramming hard against their SUV. This gave Yuri and Andrey the chance toe right in the middle as they fire multiple shots at them, elerating even more to push them against the gutter and force the vehicle to tip and roll over to the sidewalk. "Did you see that? Oh my god! Two down, one to go!" I eximed in awe. "Niki, your men are amazing!" "Baby, they can''t live with us in the mansion if they are mediocre. They hold high positions in the Mafia for a reason." This actually makes a lot of sense. This is also the reason why Yuri and the boys get so much respect from other members of the Mafia. They walk their talk, exactly like their Bosses. This time the only vehicle tailing us is this SUV to our left nk. Where is my baby bazooka when I need it the most? "Where are you?" Said Niki calmly, talking to someone over the car''s speaker. "I''m right behind you." Alexei replied. I see his car fast approaching from behind, while Dimitri, I assume is the one firing like a mad man from the passenger seat. "Took you a while. You fucking getting rusty now?" Niki retorted while ncing at the rearview mirror. "Hey princess, look away, ill just send a very important message to my brother." I did not get it at first but the moment they went past us, I realized what he was trying to do. Alexei opened his window and flipped the bird to Niki while looking straight at the road, smiling like a lunatic from ear to ear. This made Niki smirk like lunatic number two. If anything, I think he''s just happy to see his brother alive and safe. "Hello! Excuse your bromance but there are people literally shooting at us?!" I scolded them under my breath. "I got it." Said Alexei. To my utter horror, he drifted his car so it faces the vehicle chasing us, the resulting smoke effectively nkets their vehicle, giving us the chance to speed away to safety. "Do svidaniya, fuckers!" Eximed Dimitri, as we hear him over the speakerphone. The next thing we know, the uninvited guests'' car crashes through an old building. Niki took this chance to get away from the chaos. He changed gears and turned on the GPS so we can find the fastest route to Artan''s shipyard. When he realized that we are actually close to our destination, Niki''s mood somehow changed. I feel like, everything around us became somber and quiet. Niki took my hand and held it tightly. He did not have to say a single word. I know what he feels. I know what he wants to say. He hates sending me away but he has to do it. We have ovee every single difficulty that came our way. We fought to be together and yet, here we are, on our way to separate. The worse part is, I know he''s thinking that there is a chance that this might be thest time that we will see each other. I kissed the back of his tattooed hand and our wedding ring around his finger and theny his hand on top of my belly. He must have felt our babies'' wrestling match inside which exins the smile on his face. "Niki, you have to keep your promise. You and your brother wille home to me alive. I''m going to wait for you. Your babies are going to wait for you." You know that split second when your life shes before your eyes? That nanosecond that seems to stop your world from turning. That tiny- minuscule gap between your past and your definite future. That very moment you realize that things will never be the same, ever again. A ck SUV suddenly crashed into our car and forcefully smashed on to Niki''s side. My ears wrung as I try to make some sense of our situation. I tried to call Niki''s name but he seems to not hear me at all. There''s blood gushing out of his forehead covering almost half of his face. As I try to unhook my seatbelt, I noticed that my dress is soaked in water and not long enough stream of fresh blood trickled down my thighs. I wanted to scream for help but then my body shook in fear when I saw men wearing ski maskse out of the vehicle that hit us. One of them is now trying to pull me out of the passenger seat so I did my best to hold on tight. I kept my mouth shut and stood my ground. At this point, my helplessness made me feel numb from any physical pain. I''m alone and my husband - my Niki is unconscious and bleeding to his death. I have no one but myself to rely on. If this happened to me before, I would have probably begged to be let go. But now, I''d rather die than beg. I am a Volkov and no man can ever make me beg to a man beneath myst name. When I realized that they are arguing on how to transfer me from our car to theirs, seeing that I am bleeding and probably going intobor, I took the chance to grab the gun from Niki''s side and gathered enough strength and courage to shoot at them. A gasp escaped my mouth when the first shot went to the first guy''s head and the other two shots into the other man''s chest. They fell to the pavement, blood sttered around. My hands are still shaking inplete shock. "Toss the gun." Said someone from the side pushing something on my head. I did not have a choice but to oblige. "The bitch killed them." Said the guy who checked the pulse of the men I shot. Despite them seeing that I am bleeding, the man still forced me out and dragged me to their vehicle. The next thing that happened however, shook me to my core. "Nooooooo! No! Niki! Niki! Wake up Niki! Nooooooo!" I screamed at the top of my lungs as I witness with my own two eyes how the man is about to shoot Niki on his head from the back. My worse nightmare is about to happen right before my eyes. Niki having the same fate as his father Vyachev. They wrapped a hanky around my mouth, tied my wrists together and put a cloth pouch over my head effectively preventing me to see anything. And then that sound. The sound of a muffled hiss of a gun silencer in three sessive shots. My body dropped as I feel my strength drain out of my system. It feels like my throat is being tied into a knot and slowly suffocating me. At this point, I have abandoned all hope. My mind drifted off in submission. ~ St. Michael Hospital "Mrs. Volkov, can you hear me?" Said someone in white with that echoing deep and raspy voice. There are also people in white who are standing behind him. I could not see him clearly as my vision is still blurry like I''m in a dream. My eyes feel so heavy I am not sure if I want to stay awake or just go back into darkness. And then it dawned on me. Oh my goodness I''m dead. "God?" I try to reach for his face but he seems to be far away. Well at least I died not a virgin anymore. What I heard next however, made my heart jump. "Hey my princess." Slowly, a familiar face is staring straight at me. I forced myself to get up to embrace him tightly. "Alexei." "Hey, it''s okay. You''re okay. You''re safe now. You did not see God yet. It was the doctor and you''re in the hospital. You underwent an emergency c-section. You were unconscious for four days princess. You need toy back. You still need time to heal." "My babies. Where are my babies Alexei?! Those men-they killed Niki! They shot him! He promised me that he wille home to me. He promised me!" I''m already hysterical. I saw with my own two eyes how that man pointed a gun at Niki and how I heard the sound of gunshots thereafter. Those men killed my husband. "Baby, you know that I am a man of my word. I don''t make promises I can''t keep." I did not know what to think, let alone what to say the moment I saw Niki standing there wearing a hospital gown, a neck brace and holding two babies in both arms wrapped in white cloth with monogram V etched on them. The ray of sun is shining down their beautiful faces as he lets out a beaming smile like a proud father. He slowly ces in my arms the two little angels who are now asleep while their fingers are resting against their cute little chubby faces. They look so beautiful and so at peace. They have no idea how strong they are to have endured and pulled through so much. "They just came from circumcision. My little Volkovs are now ready to face the world-and the girls." Niki said as he ces our babies in my arms. Circumcision. Boys. Two more Niki Vyachev Volkov. I don''t know if I''m crying because of pure joy, of panic or of horror knowing that I have in my arms, literally smaller versions of Niki. I can barely survive with one Niki, now I have two more of him. Niki scooted over to my side and kisses me on my lips. "We need names for them." He whispered. "Hmm.. You once said regardless of sex, you''re going to name our baby Vyachev Niki Volkov. So I guess we only need one more name." "Right. So, what do you think?" Asked Niki, looking at his brother. It obviously touched Alexei''s manly heart. If I did not know any better I would think that his glistening eyes are not because ofck of sleep. "Me?" He said, in obvious momentary panic. "Well, uh, Roustam is a good name and Viktor would be a nice middle name." He continued. Roustam is Papa Vyachev''s middle name and Viktor is Alexei''s middle name and his father''s first name. It actually sounds good, not to mention, badass. "I like it." Said Niki, which made Alexei smile from ear to ear. "So, who''s Vyachev?" The moment Niki asked the question, the identical twin on my right arm raised his hand while stretching and squirming. The three of us were so surprised, we burst into silentughter. "Well, I guess that''s settled." Said Niki. "You, my boy, are Vyachev Niki Volkov. And you, young man, are Roustam Viktor Volkov. The future of the Volkov crime family and the new underbosses of the Russian Mafia. End of." Chapter 50 Epilogue Chapter 50 Epilogue Featured song (for Niki and Alexei) : Starboy by The Weeknd SWEET REVENGE Sergey Yvanislov arrived with his wife Laura at the airstrip. He hurriedly takes their bag from the back of the car and got on the ne but was halted when they got inside. He froze and lets go of the bag the moment he realized who are in front of him. Niki and Alexei arefortably sitting beside each other on different seats, wearing ck leather gloves while holding guns with silencers. Boris pushed Sergey and his wife and signaled them to sit right across the Bosses of the Russian Mafia. "Boris, why don''t you pour some wine for this man and his lovely wife?" The big man gave them a ss each already filled with champagne. Boris stood on their side to make sure they drink it- as if the now ill-fated couple has a choice. "Do you think if you kill me now, no one else is going to want your head Volkov?" Said Sergey. "Nah. I will not kill you- for now. That''s such an easy way out for you Sergey. For your wife though-" Laura is now holding her neck as if choking. She drops to her knees as she crawls to her husband gasping for air. Sergey tried to help her out but Boris pointed a gun at him telling him in Russian that he can''t do anything about it because she''s going to die any second and that if he moves, he''s going to shoot him. "What does it feel like to watch your wife choke to her death right in front of you Sergey?" Said Niki, recalling the time when Belle was choking because of a severe reaction to olives that was intentionally mixed into her food. "Laura, honey. I''m sorry. I''m so sorry." Sergey cries in defeat as he sees his wife take herst breath. Niki signaled Boris to send over Yrina next to her father. She cried the moment she saw her mother''s lifeless body. "Oh my baby girl, forgive me. Let her go Volkov! You don''t need her! She has nothing to do with this." "Okay." Niki said nonchntly. And then he shoots Yrina right in the middle of her forehead. She fell lifelessly in front of her father, eyes still half-open. Sergey attempted to reach for a gun from his back but Alexei was able to shoot him first, on his chest. He fell back and this time Niki shot him on his neck, blood instantly gushed out like a faucet. He desperately held his neck until hisst breath a few secondster. Niki and Alexei stepped out of the private ne in all their godly glory. Their men are already waiting for them to get inside the four ck SUVs. Niki is wearing a ck long coat and ck inner suit-mafia tattoos peaking over his cor and wrist and that one very prominent Conglomerate ring around his right-hand ringer finger. His brother, the other half of the Russian Mafia is wearing an all-ck suit with an inner turtleneck cor and leather gloves. He hands the gun to Dimitri while Niki hands his gun to Yuri. ~ SAFE HOUSE Belle''s POV It''s been a month since the emergency c-section. Niki and I have been living peacefully in the safe house in the Russian Mafia Town with the twins and Yuri. The little angels have been keeping their father up every night for the past four weeks-the reason why Niki looks perpetually tired and groggy. He also made sure that I get enough rest, that''s why I healed and recovered fast from being cut open to remove the babies from my womb. I learned from my husbands that after I was dragged from the car and a cloth bag was ced around my head, the gunshots I heard were those of Alexei and the rest of the boys arriving just in time to save me and Niki from the men who attacked us. They immediately brought us to the emergency room and then I was rmended for an emergency c-section. It''s also been a month since I have seen Alexei in person. He calls every day when he wakes up, in between meetings, and before he goes to bed. He''s been busy doing damage control to VH and the rest of our legitimate businesses because of the sensationalized arrest of Niki. While Andrey, Dimitri, Boris and the rest of the boys have been cleaning up the Mafia, doing loyalty checks in all of the territories of the Volkov Mafia and making sure all our business partners, domestic and international are in check. Even though we were somehow in a long-distance rtionship we made sure that we have time for each other. Alexei has a direct link to the security cameras installed in the safe house so that he won''t miss anything, including how we manage to have sex when the babies are sleeping or how Niki is Despite taking the back seat to focus on being a father, I know that in major decisions, Niki is still the one calling the shots. Alexei takes the heed and advice of his brother and they have the same love and respect for each other as ever. I stood excitedly in the veranda while waiting for Alexei to finallye and get us. I got a call from Dimitri that they are on their way although I don''t think we can leave immediately because Niki is still sound asleep on the sofa after another overnighter. He''s lying on his stomach, his face on top of a throw pillow, hair disheveled and yet still looking like a demigod. Yuri is sitting right across him tapping his phone looking serious as always. The young maids crushing on them since day one are now giggling and whispering in the corner not realizing that I can actually see and hear them. They were scolded by the olderdy who''s in charge of the safe house when she caught them ogling and loitering around. Yuri just scoffs and shook his head when he noticed me looking at him teasingly as the girls went running on tiptoes to the kitchen. Well, what can I say- that''s the Volkov effect. I can''t me them. My heart jumped from my chest when I saw three SUVs pull over the driveway. And then there he is, my Alexei. Stepping out of the car from the middle, wearing denim pants, a grey shirt and a leather jacket. He actually looks casual and rxed. His wavy short hair is in perfect ce like he just got out of a friggin magazine cover. And by just looking at him, I know that he smells so damn good. I ran to him, jumped and wrapped my legs around his waist. "Princess, careful." He chuckles. "I miss you so much Alexei." I said kissing him on his lips while my arms are entwined around his neck. He bites my tongue and then my lips with just enough pain to bring chills down my spine. "I missed you so much my beautiful wife." He said while scanning my face with those eyes that could melt even the coldest of hearts. "I''m here to get you and the three babies." He continued teasingly. I let out a giggle because I actually find it very funny and somehow quite urate. "Fuuuuck you." Inserted Niki who is now awake-he must have heard the SUVs pulling over the driveway. ~ THE MANSION One Year Later The twins are in their crib reaching for the baby mobiles hanging over them. There''s a stuffed elephant, wolves, giraffe and the mandatory squishy gun specially ced by the not so gentle giant, Boris-who by the way is a hands-on uncle who prefers to hang out with the twins than to go out on a Friday or Saturday night. Matushka and I just finished giving the twins baths that''s why they are both in a cheery mood. She has to leave early because she has a meeting with the team who handles Niki''s publicity- an image consultant ublicist as part of their n to boost the business from the recent scandal. I am d that she is slowly rebuilding her rtionship with her sons and I know eventually they will be able to forgive her. I found out from Matushka Irene that Niki called a truce with the Germans-or what''s left of them, in exchange for information of Victoria and Sergey and his wife''s whereabouts. He then ordered the release of the two little brothers of Otto provided that they now align their businesses to the Russian Mafia instead of the Cabana Cartel, giving Niki more leverage in the Conglomerate. Of course, it caught the ire of Sebastian who is also the twins'' Godfather together with Artan. At this point, I''m now used to the love-hate rtionship of Axel, Artan and Niki. I''m not going to be surprised to see them tomorrow plotting world domination together and fighting over something the next day. "Hey B, I got something for Niki''s evil spawns." Said Amy who just arrived with soft headbands Content ? N?velDrama.Org. thingy with blinking devil horns and count Drac baby costumes. She ces them around Vyachev''s and Roustam''s heads carefully. "Seriously B, are you sure these two came from you? The way I see it, all of these are Niki." I know what Amy is trying to say. My babies are as Russian as they can be. From the color and texture of their hair, those dark green eyes and the color of their skin. It''s all Niki. It''s almost as if my only contribution was my womb and nothing else. No one would ever think that Vyachev and Roustam are half Pwians as well. ~ The night came and the babies are still wide awake. I positioned myself in the middle of the bed and stacked several pillows so I can rest my back while breastfeeding the two. I can''t help but giggle because the costumes that Amy got for them really suits them well. They really look like baby count Drac. I wonder what costumes will that crazy woman think of next? While the twins are behaving like good boys, Niki and Alexei came home from VH. They made sure to clean up before jumping onto the bed with us- our usual nightly family ritual. "Hey buddy." Said Niki while slowly removing Vyachev from my breast and cing him on my side. "Papa''s turn." The cute little Drac climbs up and tries to remove his father''s face off of my breast. Niki however slowly pushes him again, making the poor thing roll over a couple of times. "Niki-" I warned. Both Niki and Alexei just chuckle while looking at him struggle to climb back up as he starts to get irritated. "Pa-pa!" Said Vyachev while looking at his father with a frown on his face. The three of us froze in our position. Niki and Alexei are so stunned that they were not able to react for a good five seconds. This almost left Niki in tears because I know how he patiently and diligently worked hard for this milestone as a father. Every day without a fail, he would say the word Papa to the twins and it now finally paid off- at least with Vyachev. Alexei, as ever, is so supportive of his brother that he actually gives Niki enough space to be a father to Vyachev and Roustam even though Niki does not necessarily want his brother to be apart from us. That was one of the main reasons why Alexei refrained from going to the safe house no matter how much he misses being with his family. "My boy. Say that again my boy. Pa pa! Pa pa!" Said Niki as he carries Vyachev to hisp but the hungry baby is already reaching for my breasts ignoring his father. "Alright, you''ve earned it." Niki said as he ces the baby back on my chest. This time, Niki attempted to remove Roustam''s mouth from my breasts but he was quickly weed by his son''s feet squishing his nose. "Good job, Roust! My man!" Alexei cheered. Niki kept on riling them up until the twins cried and cried like there''s no tomorrow for at least twenty minutes straight. Niki and Alexei were quick to cradle and hush the little dracs until they fell asleep- all four of them. Niki is on the reclining chair with baby Vyachev while Alexei is on the bed with Roustam, both Pa''s snoring softly. I slowly took the twins from their fathers'' chest and ced them carefully in their own separate cribs. I looked at the white strip test I took this morning and ced it on top of the side table right next to Alexei. I took a deep breath and sighed. Tomorrow is going to be a wonderful day in the Volkov mansion. This is my forever and ever with my Volkovs- and soon plus one. The End. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!