Their Time.

Chapter 18 - Leaving

I took a big breath in and exhaled slowly. "I trained, worked, learned, and earned the title from the day he became the Don until I was of legal age. My uncle died when I was 19 years old, leaving me as the sole heir. Sayer, Eden, and Lynx were aided by him. I ordered my vengeance on the men who had been instructed to murder my family. Became Russia's Mafia Don, gaining respect and renown over time. But I want you to know that I don't kill or harm innocent people. Women and children are not trafficked by us. The women that work for us are willing to come and go as they like." I cease allowing her to take in everything.

"Um, okay, I'm at a loss for words." She began to speak, but then abruptly stopped.

"I'm really sorry to hear about your family's situation. That, I suppose, answers my question about all the strange men in the house. I'll admit I'm terrified, but not of you. You are a product of the world you live in. I understand why you didn't want to tell me, but please don't ever lie or conceal facts from me that I need to know. To me, trust is extremely crucial."

"I understand, and I swear I'll never lie to you again. I know I'll have to earn your trust again, and I'll do so. Whatever it takes, no matter how long it takes." I inform her.

I felt more at ease around her since our chat the day before. I'm relieved that I will not have to lie to her any longer.

There will be some things I won't tell her because she doesn't need to know everything about my job.

When the time comes, I'll tell her about her mother, but not until I have more information. Especially who the mole is and what the Italians' plan is with Vera's mom.

I realized yesterday that I needed to take more action against the mole. The problem is, I know it's a guard, but we have so many guys coming in and out of the property.

My plan is to limit the number of guards on the estate so we can lower the suspects.

After I finished getting ready for the day, I called the boys and asked for their presence in my office. Once they are all here, I explain what is going to happen.

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After 3 hours of planning, arranging, arguing, and finally agreeing, we are done. I don't know how I'm going to make it up to Vera.

Even though she said she forgives me, I know from the little time I've discovered caring for someone; it matters to show the other you care about them.

Sighing, I get up, leave my office and decide to grab vera and take a walk in the garden.

Holden has been in his office since 8:30 a.m. I've been killing time, as I don't have anything to do.

I binge-watched two seasons of Criminal Minds and cleaned our room despite the fact that it was already neat.

I sit on the couch, unsure of what to do next. I discover I haven't dressed for the day by looking around the room and then at myself.

I suppose I should now, since it's already 1 p.m.

After I had washed, brushed my teeth, and combed my hair. As the temperature rose, I applied lip balm and sunscreen.

Deodorant, lotion, and perfume, I decide to leave my hair to dry naturally.

Start putting together my outfit in the closet. I finally opted for a silk dress, large knitted sweater, tights, and lace socks.

I put on underwear and lace socks before getting dressed. Including rings, necklaces, and a few pairs of earrings. I end my day's look, pleased with my choices and appearance.

We began preparing and packing for our leave the next morning. But I made sure to inform Holden that I needed to speak with Nadia first.

Her mother died recently, and she is financially, emotionally, and spiritually distraught.

I'm thinking about asking Holden for permission if she can accompany us. I need to be there for her right now, and I won't be able to do so if I'm in another country.

I go to his office and knock first because I know he's talking to Eden, Sayer, and Lynx about 'stuff' to do with his work.

When I hear a 'come in,' I scan the room anxiously and wave at the boys. Then swiftly shift my attention to Holden.

"Can I speak with you for a few minutes, please?"

He nods as he rises; I move out of the way so he can exit the room; he then closes the door behind him.

"Is it possible for Nadia to join us? Her mother recently died, and she is currently going through a difficult time. I've been distant with her already, and I want to be there for her during this time, something I can't do in a foreign country." I nervously ask about his response.

"I don't see why not, although one of the boys, most likely Sayer, will have to accompany us. Have you discussed it with her yet?" Hearing his response, I immediately look up at him and smile apriecatvly.

"I didn't want to give her false hope, so I wanted to ask your approval first." I replied.

"Go ahead and tell her, then continue packing. We'll leave at 3:00 p.m as it's a 12 hours flight." Before entering his office, he kisses me on the forehead.

I go downstairs to talk to Nadia, and after taking a seat on the couch, I take out my phone and dial her number, waiting for her to answer. On the second ring, she does exactly that.

"Hello?" My chest tightens when I hear her tired, quiet voice.

"Hello, Nadia. How are things going for you?" "I-I'm fine, I guess; I just miss her a lot, you know?"

"Yeah, I was wondering if you, Sayer, and Holden, would like to travel to Russia with me. There is no need for money; all you need is yourself and whatever you want to bring with you." I inquire casually.

"Can you tell me why you're going to Russia?"