𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐞 || A Mafia Love Story

xiv

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Marlee eventually made her way back to Mr. Clark's door, her face still glowing with a radiant smile. "Thank you for letting me see the animals again, Mr. Clark!" she exclaimed cheerfully. Mr. Clark glanced over the girl's shoulder, his gaze settling on the towering figure of Viktor standing directly behind her. The old man observed the man's protective stance, silently noting the way he seemed to be glued to Marlee's side like her own personal shadow.

Mr. Clark returned Marlee's smile with a warm and paternal grin. "Of course, dear," he replied affectionately. "You're welcome here anytime."

He chuckled at her enthusiasm and continued, "As a matter of fact, I'm getting some new animals soon, and I could use some help setting them up in their pens."

Marlee's eyes widened with excitement, and she nearly jumped in place at the prospect of helping. "I can help?" she asked eagerly, her voice filled with eager expectation.

Mr. Clark let out an amused chuckle at Marlee's boundless enthusiasm, his eyes glinting with a mixture of affection and mild amusement. "Oh, go on then, bring your friend too," he said, nodding towards Viktor. "I could use all the help I can get."

Marlee spun around to look up at the tall man standing half a foot behind her, a pleading pout on her face. "Will you?! Please?" she begged, drawing out the the word please.

As Marlee continued her exaggerated plea, whining, and pouting, her eyes were fixed on Viktor's face, hoping to coax a softer response out of him. But his expression remained as stoic as ever, his mouth firmly set in a line.

Finally, after a long moment of suspense, Viktor let out a low grumble, stuffing his hands into his pockets and looking away. Despite his gruff demeanor, his voice betrayed a hint of affection as he said, "I'll think about it."

Despite his words, Viktor knew that he would never pass up the chance to spend time with her.

"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" The girl squealed.

Marlee threw her arms around Viktor's middle, her enthusiasm infectious as she celebrated her victory. Before he could fully register what was happening, Viktor froze, his arms awkwardly hanging at his sides as if he'd forgotten how to use them. In that moment, he resembled a statue more than a living being.

As Marlee's arms encircled his waist, Viktor's body felt taut and tense. He wasn't used to being hugged. The feel of her body pressed against his, even momentarily, sent unexpected sensations tingling through his body.

As the brief hug ended, Viktor's heart thundered in his chest, the unexpected touch leaving an aftershock of sensation in his body. A faint blush crept up his ears, hidden from view in the darkness of his shaggy hair but betraying his true feelings. He remained frozen in place, as if her embrace had rendered him immobile.

Meanwhile, Marlee turned around to face Mr. Clark with a wide grin, her enthusiasm undampened. "When are you getting the animals!?" she asked eagerly, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

Mr. Clark chuckled, watching as Marlee turned and walked back toward the car, her steps full of energy. Viktor followed a few steps behind, his expression as stoic as ever, his mind still reeling from the unexpected hug.

Marlee called out a cheerful "Bye Mr. Clark, see you later!", her voice full of enthusiasm and promise, Mr. Clark called back in response. "Bye dear, see you both soon," he replied, a knowing smile on his face.

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The events from earlier in the day were almost forgotten as Marlee prattled on happily the entire ride home, filling the silence with her cheerful chatter. Viktor, however, was still seething inside, his anger and frustration still bubbling just beneath the surface. But for her sake, he kept it in check, forcing himself to remain composed and outwardly calm.