Trauma At Its Finest (Lip Gallagher X Male Reader)

Ch 35. Pre-Marital Doubts

Two months before Y/N went to Chicago — almost a year into his return to Russia — he, along with other members of the mafia, attended a meeting.

The chandelier above cast a dim, yellow light as everyone listened closely to Sergey, who stood near the front of the room, presenting the new plan. At the back of the room, a screen projected the necessary information.

"Уровень преступности здесь в целом выше. Мы можем использовать это как идеальную возможность работать в тени, выдаваясь за обычных преступников."

'The crime rate here is generally higher. We can use this as the perfect opportunity to operate in the shadows, blending in as common criminals.' Sergey said, displaying several pictures of Chicago as he continued his presentation.

As he neared the end, he glanced around the room.
"Кто бы ни был отправлен, он будет следить за контактами там, а также выполнять ряд других задач. Я знаю, что у многих из вас здесь есть связи, но обещаю, что деньги перевесят любое наказание. Ваша семья получит свою долю. Если хотите потратить их иначе, пожалуйста. Главное — не создавайте проблем."

'Whoever is sent will oversee our contacts there, as well as carry out a series of other tasks. I know many of you have ties back here, but I promise the money will outweigh any risk. Your families will receive their share. If you choose to spend it differently, that's your business. Just don't cause any trouble.'

Some members looked at one another — a few intrigued, others stoic. Already confident that many were interested, Sergey eyed the group.

"Это будет шанс всей жизни. Пока вы ведёте себя как обычный гражданин, выполняете свою работу и разумно тратите деньги, вы свободны делать что угодно. Вы здесь, потому что я верю, что вы все справитесь с этим заданием. Если у вас хватит смелости, поднимите руки."

'This will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As long as you act like regular citizens, do your jobs, and spend your money wisely, you're free to do whatever you want in the meantime. You're here because I believe you can all handle this assignment. If you've got the guts, raise your hands.'

Immediately, several hands shot up — more than half the room. Sergey was pleased, already picking out a few he deemed worthy.

But one hand surprised him.

He had only invited two people he didn't expect to volunteer — his brothers. And now, the youngest of the two had his hand raised.

Vlad looked at Y/N in shock. "Мак? Что ты делаешь?" 'Mak? What are you doing?'

Y/N remained calm, his face unreadable. Sergey, intrigued by his brother's silent confidence, said nothing and continued.

"Я рад видеть вашу преданность. Я буду опрашивать каждого из вас по одному, чтобы определить, кто достоин."

'I'm glad to see your dedication. I'll be interviewing each of you one-on-one to determine who's worthy.'

While Y/N patiently waits for his turn, he gets scolded by Vlad about his decision. With multiple other mafia members sitting in the hallway, one by one they get summoned to the office.