The Russian Fighter (Mafia Men #1)

Mend The Bond

Chapter 19

Edited

I woke the next morning alone in my house with nothing but the sounds of cars rushing by, the faint smells of the autumnal trees, and its leaves peppering the dirty windows of the lawn.

Vitaly left sometime during the night. I'd heard the rustling of clothing, half asleep, and listened as he left. I let him when I should have asked him to stay.

I felt dirty. I felt evil. I felt stupid for judging Maksim when I was fucking the same guy just to escape my feelings for another.

Not wanting to be alone the next couple days were spent at the diner with double shifts. I needed to buy a new camera to continue my project for Digital Arts. The one Maksim was to buy, however the next few days started ignoring me at school.

I guess the reprieve allowed me to focus on my aunt's burial. A check was sent to me from Boris with a short note:

This should cover the cost, moi glaza. Bury her with pride, for her death was but a lesson.

Sincerely, your Dom.

The worst part was not hearing from my family since they took the news. I had reigned in my emotions, doing my best to keep a strong voice when the first cry stole the conversation. We talk occasionally, but only twice every week.

Nina tells me Vitaly lets her make private calls during the night from their cell, just to check up on me. Of course I lie and tell her I'm doing better.

But even I knew the lie was unbelievably bullshit.

Since my aunt's death I have woken to my own screams. Waking up from nightmares. Most nights I lie awake. Alone. Scared. Depressed.

For years I prevented people from entering my life, afraid they would leave me just like Arina had. And Vitaly. Or die like Greg.

Afraid if I gave my heart again, I'd fade in despair.

The shrill of my phone brought me from my thoughts.

"Boris," I said, having read the caller ID. "What do I owe the King?"

He chuckled. "So lovely to speak with you. I have a proposition for my lovely spy."

"Another Chase The Russian assignment?"

"Maksim and his brother have a game tonight. The one with the touchdown, and tossing the ball. My son will be there. I want you to go."

"For what?"

"For your family's sake I am willing to call off the arrangement with you and my son, so long as you give me what I want."

Call off the engagement?

"Why would you do that?"

"Call it compensation for what he tried to do to you."

"You know about that?"

"I know all things, my child. He has been dealt with. As for my nephew, I still require something from him. Can you comply?"