I walked out from behind the tree to find Clara sitting on the couch in the corner. Walking over, I joined her. We sat watching as the ladies packed their things.
Clara spoke with love in her voice as she shared her story with me. “All my life, my brother protected me from everything. He never placed me in danger. He always understood and cared about how I felt, even when he wasn’t around. He listened when I had something to say. He will do the same with you.”
The ladies greeted us and left. Once they were out of the room, Clara turned to me as she continued. “I grew up in a world filled with a lot of support and love. My brother was my rock. I didn’t even know he was Bratva or that this world existed.”
Before she continued, I interrupted her. “What?” I huffed. “You never knew about the Bratva world as you were growingup?” Clara smiled. I knew my face expressed what I wasn’t saying.
“Yes, and no. I knew I was a secret but wasn’t sure why.” Clara said. “I was hidden from the world known as Bratva. I never realized the extent of it until I found the love of my life. I would never have agreed that he would be the love of my life until I was kidnapped.”
My mouth fell open in awe. What? She had been in a similar position.
Clara took my hand as she continued. “I can promise you that my brother will carry you on his hands. He will respect you for who you are.”
Smiling at her, I spoke in an even tone. “I’m not so sure. I’ve seen sides of him that don’t portray that man you’re talking about.”
Clara got up, took my hand, and pulled me to my feet. She let go of my hand only to pull me into her arms. She hugged me tightly as she whispered. “My brother seems harsh and dangerous. Sometimes I’m sure he is scary. But he is a very good person. Give him a chance, the benefit of proving to you before making up your mind.”
As she let go, I nodded. “I will,” I replied.
Clara picked up her bag and walked out the door. She stopped, turned, and looked at me. “I enjoyed today. We should do it again soon,” she said.
“Thank you. I have also had fun. You can come visit anytime,” I responded.
Once Clara had left, I headed back upstairs. I had learned so much about Kolya and Clara. I was distraught. This was a dilemma for me. There was so much more to them thanI expected. Today I saw another facade of his personality. A kinder, brotherly, loving personality.
Sitting down on the bed, I struggled with my thoughts. I hadn’t seen or known he had such a soft side. But being a stubborn woman, I knew what had to be done. I decided I would still proceed with the plan brewing in my head.
I had to find out the truth about the lawsuits. I had to get to Melody and speak to her. She would tell me what was happening. Nothing made sense, but once I spoke to her, I knew it would all be fine.
As I got out of the tub after a long soaking bath, I heard Kolya calling. He had just returned. I got dressed and headed down.
“Supper, dear?” he asked, standing by the dining hall door.
Moving in, we sat down and waited for the maids to leave before starting a conversation. “So, tell me about your day?” Kolya asked. He seemed eager to know about my day with his sister.
It wasn’t an issue. I quickly relayed all we did and spoke about. Once I was done, he stared at me, grinning. “So,” Kolya suddenly said. “What do you think of my baby sister?”
Swallowing the bite I took, I replied eagerly. “Well, I have to admit, I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t think she was so…,”
Kolya laughed, “So, what?” he asked.
“Well,” I said, smiling. “So nice and interesting. I enjoyed visiting with her.”
“I am absolutely thrilled to hear that,” Kolya replied. His grin now spread from ear to ear.
Glancing down at my plate, I scraped up enough courage to ask. “Kolya.”
“Yes?” he inquired. “Is everything okay?”
“Yes, yes. No, everything is fine. Nothing wrong,” I added, looking at him. “I was just wondering. I have some errands to run. Would you take me to town tomorrow?”
Kolya sat back in his chair. He stared at me for the longest moment. I wondered what he was thinking. “Yes, no problem,” he finally said, surprising me with such an easy yes. “But,” he added.
Lifting my brows as I looked at him, he smiled. “Nothing serious,” he added lightly. “Yet, I have to insist on joining you. Maybe we can even make a day of it. You know! We could do brunch, run your errands, and then go see a movie or something. What do you think?”
“That sounds nice,” I replied, lowering my head. I didn’t want him with me. But if it were the only way to get to town, I would take it. Once we got there, I could make a plan to sneak away.
“Then it’s settled,” he said. “We can leave around ten, have brunch, and then do your errands. After that, we could do some shopping and see what the day brings.”
