Page 50 of The Bratva Enforcer and His Virgin Bride

For a moment, I’m distracted by how beautiful they both look.

Valeria’s dress is elegant in a way that seems effortless, while Ashley somehow manages to look glamorous and intimidating at the same time.

The two of them have become surprisingly close over the last two days. Considering their personalities, I probably shouldn’t be surprised. They both have a stubborn streak that could flatten buildings.

Valeria smiles gently when she sees me. “It’s time.”

My stomach immediately knots.

I already know what she means.

“Lukyan is waiting in the garden.”

The room suddenly feels smaller. This is actually happening.

I swallow and nod.

Neither of them rushes me.

Ashley crosses the room first.

She takes both my hands in hers and squeezes.

Her expression is unusually serious. “It’s going to be okay, Sofi.”

Emotion clogs my throat instantly.

“We’ll get through this,” she says.

We.

Not you.

We.

As though she’s planning to shoulder part of this burden with me.

A watery laugh escapes me. “Thank you.”

She squeezes my hands one final time before letting go.

Then the three of us leave the room together.

The walk through the estate feels strangely quiet.

The closer we get to the garden, the louder my heartbeat becomes.

I can hear voices before I see anyone.

His family fills the pews. And none of my family is present. Lukyan asked, but I insisted I didn’t want them around. He didn’t ask questions.

The garden setup is beautiful. Exactly the kind of ceremony I would have chosen for myself if circumstances were different.

White flowers line the aisle.

Soft music drifts through the garden.

Rows of chairs are filled with familiar faces. The Rusnaks. Their wives. The women are waving at me, huge smiles on theirfaces. I smile back, grateful I was a little familiar with them before now. It makes everything easier.