“What? It’s true.” She turns back to Kirsten with an apologetic shrug. “Sorry. I know this is probably overwhelming. I just have questions. So many questions.”
Kirsten glances at me, then back at my sisters. “I’m sure you do. I have a few myself.”
“Then we’ll figure out the answers together.” Kristina’s smile is softer than Anya’s, more reserved. “For now, let’s focus on finding you something beautiful to wear. The family gatherings can be intimidating if you don’t feel prepared.”
Kirsten visibly relaxes at that. Just a fraction, but I notice.
“I should warn you,” she admits, “I don’t really do fancy events. Most of my wardrobe is business casual at best.”
“That’s what we’re here for.” Anya starts pulling dresses from the pile. “I design clothes for a living, and Kristina works at an art gallery surrounded by wealthy donors. Between the two of us, we’ve got you covered.”
“You design clothes?”
“Mostly custom pieces. Special occasions, that sort of thing.” Anya holds up a deep red gown with a plunging neckline. “What do you think of this one?”
Kirsten’s eyebrows rise. “That’s… a lot of skin.”
“Too much?”
“For meeting my husband’s entire family for the first time? Probably.”
I watch the exchange from my position near the kitchen. There’s something almost funny about seeing Kirsten interact with my sisters. She’s so guarded with me, so careful about every word and gesture. But Anya’s relentless friendliness seems to be wearing down her defenses.
“What about this?” Kristina pulls out a navy blue dress with delicate silver embroidery along the neckline and hem. “It’s elegant without being too revealing. And the detail work is stunning.”
Kirsten reaches out to touch the fabric. “That’s beautiful.”
“Try it on.” Kristina shoves the dress into her hands. “The guest bathroom should have enough space.”
Kirsten disappears down the hall. As soon as she’s out of earshot, both sisters turn to me.
“She’s terrified,” Anya announces.
“She’s just being cautious.”
“She’s terrified of us.” Kristina folds her arms. “What exactly did you do to this woman, Menlow?”
“Nothing she didn’t agree to.”
“That’s not an answer.”
I run a hand through my hair. “It’s the only answer I can give right now. The situation is delicate.”
“Delicate.” Anya rolls her eyes. “You sound like Pavel.”
“Speaking of which, I need to make a call. Keep her comfortable. Don’t scare her off.”
“We would never.”
I retreat to my office and close the door, pulling out my phone. Pavel answers on the second ring.
“Perfect timing,” he says. “I was about to call you.”
“What’s happening?”
“Movement from the Volkovs. New shipments coming into the port, increased activity at their warehouses. Nothing suspicious on the surface, but they’re definitely ramping up operations.”
I sink into my chair. “Retaliation?”
