Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jeremy

The sound of one gunshot rings through my ears. Then instantly another. “Fuck!” An angry deep voice bellows. Weight falls upon my back like a pile of bricks. I turn around to grab my friend. My best friend. Obviously in shock, he looks at me with wide eyes that move downward to focus on his bloody chest. He sways and I catch him. My guard and I push him into the back seat of the car.

“Hospital now!” I yell, not even caring about the mess that’s left behind.

My guard drives like a bat out of hell while I sit on my knees in the back seat applying pressure to the chest wound with my jacket. There is blood everywhere.

My friend keeps pleading, begging for me to call his husband. He can barely breathe through the pain, but he wants to talk on the phone? Fucking crazy. He won’t relent. I won’t spare the milliseconds it would take to get my phone out and dial. The pressure on his chest is more important.

I look into his dark wild eyes. Trying to calm him.

“Niko! Stop talking and breathe man.”
“You’ll be okay.”
“Bran wants you to go to the hospital.”

“He does?” Spoken with a wheezing breath.

“Yeah.”

He passes out.

Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!

“Nikolai!” I yell into his face.

I check his pulse. It’s still beating. I take a breath I hadn’t known I was holding in.

We park and instantly hospital attendants reach into the car and pull Niko out and place him on a gurney. They race into the building.

I stand next to the car filled with blood. His blood. My clothes are soaked and I look around. Almost turn 360 degrees. It’s like I’m free floating. I can’t find my footing. The realization knocks me over with the force of a sledgehammer.

My best friend just took a bullet that was meant for me. He even shot the asshole and killed him.

I have to let people know. I have to tell someone that Niko’s been shot. But who? They all deserve to know that he’s at the hospital. But I am covered in blood. I don’t want to go inside like this. Also, I hate hospitals. Shit. My mind is a fucking mess. Get it the fuck together Jeremy. I tell myself.

I stand in front of my blood filled car, vacillating about what to do next. It feels like I’ve been frozen here for hours, but actually it’s only been a couple minutes. Suddenly, a vintage black Porsche rushes towards me screeching its breaks. A tall, distinguished man and a beautiful woman with blonde hair in a bun burst out of the car and run toward me.

Kyle Hunter and Rai Sokolov. Niko’s parents. Shit. What am I supposed to say to them?

“Where is he?” Kyle demands. His British accent, deep and harsh due to the circumstances.

“He’s inside. They just took him in.” I think I sound like my normally collected self.

Evidently not.

“Jeremy, are you okay? I think you're in shock. Breathe” Rai Sokolov orders while wrapping her arms around my back and taking a few deep breaths. My body goes rigid.

I try to fight out of her hold. “Don’t!” Rai ignores my warning. She won’t let go, but I’m covered in blood. The white coat she’s wearing is now splotched with her son’s blood.

“It’s okay," she says calmly. “It’s okay.” She repeats. She continues to force me to breathe with her. Stroking my hair and back in a motherly embrace. Even though I don’t want to admit it. This helps. My brain begins to thaw and I can kind of focus again.

My guard Ilya who has been watching this whole scene decides to help by opening the trunk, and handing me his black trench coat.

“It will cover up the blood on your clothes until you can change.” He says with a Russian accent.

“Thanks.” I say through gritted teeth. I fucking hate being cared for. Cecily always says I suck at vulnerability.

Kyle removes Rai’s soiled coat, swears, and throws it in his car. “Let’s go.” He orders.

Rai wraps her arm through Kyle’s and takes my hand in her other. Like I’m a god damn kid. I want to protest her mothering, but it gets my feet moving. The floating feeling starts to dissipate. We race toward the hospital doors.

Chapter Text

Jeremy

Think doctor’s office waiting room, and that’s what the scene looks like. Not a hospital. It’s a secret trauma center run by the Bratva. There are even legitimate medical offices located on the first floor. No one would ever suspect what it truly is. It’s the perfect disguise.

A woman in blue scrubs sitting at a check-in desk watches us enter. She instantly gets up and directs us down the hall. She knows exactly why we’re here.

We walk hurriedly towards the back of the building. There are double doors with frosted glass. The doors don’t allow you to see what’s behind them, but you can see flashes of movement. There is so much movement.

A few chairs are placed against a wall across from the doors. Rai sits down and instantly takes out her phone. She begins texting. Tears are slowly falling down her cheeks. Kyle stands in front of her like he’s protecting her from an unseen threat. I’ve known Rai Sokolov my entire life and I’ve never seen the woman cry. She is normally so poised, a force of nature, yet caring. Fuck!

I can’t sit down. Hell, I can’t even stand still. I start pacing up and down the corridor.

Kyle catches up with me and asks. “What the fuck happened back there?” He is so angry and trying to hold it in. While whispering harshly, he keeps looking back at his wife.

“How did you find out so fast?” I ignore his question.

“Kirill” Is all he says.

I close my eyes for a split second. Fuck me! Am I a fucking incompetent liability now? Kyle must see the look on my face because he adds,

“Kirill said the security footage shows Christian yelling at you and Niko, then he pulls out a gun.”

I shake my head.

“He was yelling at me. Spouting bullshit about not getting access to V Corps’ financials. That motherfucker claimed I would take his idiotic idea and put it into play myself. Oh and that I was trying to sabotage his non-existent reputation.” I speak to Kyle as if he wasn’t in that meeting too. I grow angrier by the second. What a load of absolute fucking crap. That doucebag wasn’t ever going to get shit from me. From anyone in that room. I pause for a second before I start yelling. “Did you know that right after the meeting he pulled Niko aside and tried to persuade him. Usurping Me! Made some empty promises. Like Niko’s stupid enough to fall for that. Niko told him to go fuck himself.” I do smile at that recollection.

“That’s my boy.” Kyle says with pride.

“I already told that asshole yesterday he wasn’t getting any information about V Corp.” Rai says with a dark expression as she walks towards us. “How did he ever get access to the morning meeting?”

Who the fuck knows? I can’t think about that when my friend is suffering right now.

I continue the story in a much quieter tone. ”I never saw him pull his gun.” I wipe my hands over my face. “I just remember being shoved aside by Niko and hearing two gunshots. That was it… I know the bastard is a fucking corpse. I saw the bullet wound. Right between the eyes.“

“As it should be.” Kyle says and Rai shakes her head in agreement.

In a dizzying change of subject Rai says,
“Kyle. Bran needs to be here.”

“I know.” Kyle sighs. “I’m worried about his reaction.”

“He’ll handle it.” Rai reassures him. “He has to be strong to be in love with our little miracle.” Another tear escapes her eye.

I understand why Kyle is worried. But Rai is right. Bran loves Niko to a fault. He will be there for him every step of the way. Of that, I’m sure.

It’s at that moment a doctor emerges from the double doors.

“How is he?” Rai asks the doctor. She and Kyle talk to the doctor while I stand away and watch.

The doctor explains, “Mr. Sokolov is stable and being prepped for surgery. The bullet is lodged in his chest. We need to remove it as soon as possible. It is promising that the bullet isn’t near his heart, but we don’t want to take any chances.”

The doctor nods to a person in scrubs who escorts us up to the third floor waiting room.

“This is the surgical floor. We will let you know the outcome when the surgery is over.”

Kyle leans over and kisses Rai. ”I’m going to pick up Bran. Rai!” He says her name forcefully so she gives him all her attention. “I contacted Katia and Ruslan. Told them to get their asses over here now. They are to stay glued to your side while I’m gone. Understood?” She nods slowly. “I’m not taking any chances with any more of my family. Fuck!”

It is rare to see Kyle lose his cool. Rai is way more hot-headed than him. Not today. I get it, Niko’s his son and they’ve always been close.

As Rai, her guards, and I wait, the elevator door dings and none other than my father steps out. His grey eyes are so dark that they look like storm clouds. His brows are furrowed and his jaw is set in a hard line. He cuts a direct path to me. He grabs my shoulder in a fatherly embrace.

“Jeremy. How are you doing son?”

“What are you doing here dad?”

“I heard what happened. I came to see if you’re alright.” Dad explains with a slight Russian accent.

“Who told you?” He wasn’t at the meeting. He rarely makes an appearance anymore. He said that was my job now. He always hated the meetings. Before my father can answer, Rai interrupts to say “I did.”

Dad just shakes his head yes. He escorts me to the chairs that are the furthest away from anyone else.

“Tell me exactly what happened.”

“You already know.” Not a question.

He shakes his head in confirmation. ”But not from you.”

Retelling the story ravages me. My brain feels foggy again. Motherfucking Fuck. I hate this.

Chapter Text

As the elevator doors slide open, Kyle and Brandon King emerge. I watch as Rai gets up from her seat and runs toward the elevators. She wraps her arms around her son-in-law. They embrace in a hug where they rock from side to side. As they let go of each other, Rai grabs his hand and leads him toward the waiting area chairs in much the same manner as she did to me earlier.

I am actually around Bran a lot considering Nico is my best friend and Cecily is his. We get along just fine. I can say with certainty that I have never seen him look like this before. While Bran is tall and elegant, with model-like looks and always immaculately dressed. Right now, he looks like a fucking ghost. His skin and eyes are pale. Devoid of color. There is so much anxiety pouring out of him. It stifles the air in the room.

He eyes me, then my father, and for a fraction of a second he narrows his eyes the slightest bit. I can instantly tell that I am the last person in the world he wants to talk to right now. I was going to say something to him, but decide against it. He doesn’t want it. The expression on his face makes it abundantly clear. I’ll give him the space he needs for now.

From their greeting, I expect Bran to cling to Rai. She looks surprised as well when he sits by himself. His posture is rigid, with legs crossed and hands in his lap. He keeps touching or twisting his wedding band. Signs of worry about the fate of his husband. As time goes on, he becomes practically catatonic. He sits bent over, elbows on his knees and hands in a steeple at his chin. Staring into space. He doesn’t move. Doesn’t blink. He seems to barely breathe.

Dad’s number two man, Kolya, appears out of nowhere. Damn it. Usually it’s hard to sneak up on me. He hands me a garment bag. “Change out of the bloody clothes Jeremy.” I nod my head and take a trip to the bathroom. It’s a welcome respite from the tension in that waiting room. Also I don’t want Bran to see me covered in his husband’s blood.

I remove the trench coat and the bloodied suit I’m wearing. It’s dark gray, but it’s completely evident that it’s soaked in blood. My whole body is practically covered too. I use one of their showers to wash the blood off my skin then change into the clean suit.

Before heading back to the waiting room, I call Cecily. She needs to know what happened and I don’t want her to find out from anyone else. She sobs on the phone. Horrified that I was targeted. Horrified that Niko was shot. Her mama bear persona kicks in full force. She begs me to come to the hospital to help out. To support Bran. To see Niko. I tell her No to all of it. I told her that she needs to wait until both Niko and Bran say it’s okay. God only knows how long this will take and I have no idea how Bran will react. I want to shield her from all of this. But I also have to protect my friend. She warns me about the talk we’re going to have when I get home. Fuck me.

I call my mom and ask her to go and stay with Cecily. It should help. Over the years, Mom and Cecily have become good friends. Mom understands tragedies like this. She can try and get Cecily to understand too. I hope.

When I return, Rai is sitting next to Bran trying to resuscitate him from his stupor. He looks embarrassed and visibly wills himself to sit up and interact with the people around him. I take this opportunity to speak with Bran. To say what has been in my heart since Nico took that cursed bullet this morning.

It takes every bit of my energy to walk over to Bran. Sit next to him. I palm his nape and press my forehead to his. With complete sincerity, I admit. “Bran, I am so sorry this happened… It should have been me.” His eyes go wide. He looks at me like I’m crazy, but then his expression softens. “It’s okay if you blame me. I’m not asking for your forgiveness. Just know that I will do everything I can to make this up to Niko and to you.” I know this is overwhelming for him. We don’t touch like this ever and I couldn’t give a fuck less.

“Thank you.” He says with a choked expression. That’s it. Simple. I can accept that. Then he quickly changes the subject and asks me how Cecily is doing.

After that interaction, there are no more conversations between Bran and I. Between anyone at all. We all just wait for news. It’s another two hours of waiting before we hear anything.

Finally, about 1pm the surgeon who operated on Niko appears to explain his condition. She tells us, his heart is fine. It was not damaged at all due to the shooting. The news that fucking breaks me. Breaks everyone is that a soft point bullet was used. That bullet created a larger wound in Niko’s chest and shoulder than a normal bullet would. It needed extra internal sutures and will require more healing time. What. The. Fuck! I just shake my head. I can’t believe this. Rage, fury, wrath and bitterness roils inside me.

Bran doesn’t understand what the doctor is saying and keeps asking questions. The more he inquires, the more the rage, I’m trying to keep at bay, spirals. He asks Kyle to explain further. Kyle is gentle and patient with him, but his eyes show that he’s ready to murder someone. Dig the asshole Christian’s body up and kill him again.

Me, I’m livid. What kind of fucking asshole uses bullets made for big game animals on people? I ask my father if he can get some information on who vouched for Christian. How he was able to get access to the morning meeting. There has to be a catch somewhere. He says he will. If anyone can find out, it’s my dad with his skill and army of intelligence gatherers. He leaves to start digging while the rest of us head to Niko's room.

We are told that Niko is sleeping due to the heavy anesthesia and will stay that way for a while. I just need to know that he’s okay. Maybe some of the pressure in my chest will finally subside if I can see that he’s still whole.

Chapter Text

We enter the last hospital room in the hallway. Barely any light shines into the space. The beeping of the heart monitor sounds like an assault to my ears. It’s too loud in the silence. Niko lays still on the bed. He is shirtless. A blanket covers the bottom half of his body. He is hooked up to several monitors. The bullet wound is wrapped in a huge mass of gauze, medical tape, and plastic tubing that covers the entire left side of his chest and shoulder. His left arm is immobilized in a splint at chest level. His skin is grey. He’s always so full of life, color, and energy. It's somehow drained from him. This is not him. Not my larger than life best friend. I want to punch the wall. I want to punch Christian until his bones shatter beneath my fists. Too bad the motherfucker is already dead.

I see Bran take Niko’s right hand and kiss it as a tear falls from his eye. His gaze keeps sweeping up and down across Niko’s form, looking at everything that has been done to his husband. Rai places herself at Nico’s left and kisses his forehead. She also takes note of everything about her son. She strokes his long hair away from his face and whispers something in his ear. Kyle and I watch from the foot of the bed allowing Bran and Rai their time. No one speaks. What is there to say? Niko survived and that is most important, but this injury took its toll on him. We just watch in silence as Niko sleeps and hopefully recuperates.

Throughout the day, I have been using the Heathens group chat to keep my friends updated on what is going on. I have been sending texts to Cecily, my parents, and Annika too. They all want to know what’s happening. However, my friends are as angry as I am. They are ready for war.

Me: Niko is out of surgery. Per the surgeon, he's going to be okay. The bandage on his wound covers the entire left side of his chest. It’s hard to look at.

Killian: For that type of injury it would be. There should also be drainage tubes.

Gareth: Damn. I’m glad my cousin is okay. @KillianCarson Did you really have to mention drainage, dude?

Killian: Shut the fuck up big bro. I’m keeping it real. Doctor remember???

Me: Tone it down, both of you. I don’t have the patience for your shit today.

Vaughn: What Jer said. Sorry about Niko man. I’ll be home tomorrow.

Killian: Where are you V?

Vaughn: Chicago.

Gareth: 👍

Killian: What’s the surgeon’s name? I want specifics from them.

Me: Dr. Agopov. Don’t cause trouble, Kill.

Killian: Me? Never.

Gareth: 🙄

Vaughn: What do we know about the asshole who shot Niko?

Me: He’s a rotting corpse.

5 minutes later…

Vaughn: I’ve never heard of a Christian Belova or any Belova family at all. My dad would never let some rando just barge into the meeting. What did the fucker do to gain access anyway?

Me: No fucking clue. My father is looking into it.

Gareth: Let us know what you find out.

30 minutes later…

Killian: I just finished speaking with Dr. Agapov. She gave me the run down on Niko’s injury. It’s quite extensive. A couple months of recovery at least. That’s double what it normally would be. Fucking soft tip bullet. Jesus Fucking Christ!

Gareth: A couple months of Niko being tethered??? WTF. @JeremyVolkov how are you going to keep him in check? He’ll go ballistic.

Me: Not fucking sure yet. Let’s see how Niko does first. He will be itching for some recompense. That’s for sure. Not just for him, but for Bran too.

Killian: When you find out. I want to know. I want to help maim the motherfucker that allowed this to happen to my cousin.

Gareth: What Kill said.

Killian: Glyn is in tears over it. She’s been crying since we heard. Crying for Niko and her brother. Anyone who makes my Little Rabbit cry is one dead son of a bitch.

Vaughn: It could be more than one person.

Killian: Doesn't matter.

Vaughn: No matter the circumstances. They will need to be made an example of so it doesn’t happen again.

Me: Exactly. They will be fucking sorry and it will fucking hurt.

I leave the chat. I need a break from the aggression of Heathens. It’s making me edgy and I have no outlet right now.

Bran told me about all his friends and family sending messages from London. At least he and Niko have that. I’m sure that Cecily has spoken to Ava several times already. Probably in the middle of one of their mega marathon FaceTime calls as we speak.

Niko just sleeps through it all. Wake up man. I just need to see that you’re okay and you’re still you. Then I’ll be able to relax a little.

Kyle, Rai and Bran have all been trying to persuade me to go home to Cecily. I just can’t make myself leave. Around 5 Cecily texts me.

My Lisichka (Little Fox): How’s Niko? How’s Bran?

Me: Niko’s still asleep. Hasn’t moved an inch since I entered this room. You can barely see him breathing. It’s creeping me out. Bran hasn’t moved either. He has been holding Niko’s hand the entire time.

My Lisichka: OMG! Poor Niko. Poor Bran.

My Lisichka: I told your mum and Yan they could head home. They have been with me all day. Are you coming home tonight? I miss you.

Me: I’ll be home soon Lisichka. I need to see your beautiful self.

My Lisichka: Love you. 💖

Me: Love you more.

Chapter Text

I walk through the door of my house about 5:30pm. As soon as I cross the threshold the little hairs on the back of my neck start to prickle. I know something is wrong. A sense of foreboding looms in the air. My body instantly stiffens and I call out for Cecily.

“Lisichka!”

No answer.

There are no lights on anywhere. A faint scent of tea and toast wafts throughout the house. Why does the place feel uninhabited? I call out again. Louder with a sense of urgency in my voice.

“Cecily! Are you here? Lisichka?”

Still no answer.

I start searching the house. Panic flooding my brain. Tightness in my chest. No No No. Nothing else can happen today! I check everywhere.
Kitchen, No.
Living Room, No.
Dining room, No.

I run up the stairs 3 at-a-time while texting Ilya.

Me: Cecily didn’t go anywhere right? I told you to keep a watch on her.

Ilya: She is there, Boss. She made food in the kitchen 30 minutes ago. I saw her through the back window. Let me check the footage again.

I am frantically checking all the upstairs bedrooms, bathrooms, walk-in closets. No Cecily anywhere.

Ilya: Check the den. She walked in with her food.

I stop. Fuck! Didn’t check there. The den is Cecily’s library, TV room and office all rolled into one. She loves that place. I should have known. Should have thought. Shit!

I run down the stairs then turn right heading down the long hallway towards the den. The large double doors are closed. I slam them open. They rattle against the walls. The room is dark. The TV glows with Cecily’s Netflix account page waiting for a show to be chosen. The furniture casts dark shadows throughout the space. I click on a side lamp to give the room some more light. Then, I see her. My Lisichka, sleeping on the couch. Her head laying on a soft cream colored chenille pillow. I finally allow myself to breathe. My love, my comfort, my everything, right before my eyes.

My peace is short lived though.

I lean down to kiss her and notice Cecily’s breathing is heavy. I touch her back and her muscles are tight and her hands are clenched into fists. Fuck! She’s having an episode of sleep paralysis. She hasn't had that in years. Today must have really fucked her up. I begin the process of getting her out of it.

“Lisichka. I’m home.” I whisper into her ear while gently stroking the nape of her neck.

No Response.

“Cecily, wake up my love.” I start kissing her face, neck, hands.

A little tension leaves her muscles. Her fingers begin to unlock. Thank God!

I continue kissing down any part of her body I can reach. Her face, her hair, her lips, her arms, her wrists, her fingers. I even lift her shirt and begin kissing down her stomach.

Her head starts to loll and her eyelids flutter. She’s finally coming out of it. Tears begin to leak from the corner of her eyes. Her bright green eyes pop open and stare directly at me.

“Jeremy?” She murmurs, with a voice so soft, I can barely hear it.

I kiss her beautiful face. Letting my nose wander in her silver hair. The smell of her water lilies perfume intensifies as she moves.

“Jeremy. Oh god. I’ve missed you so much. You’re home now. You’re alive!”

I’m alive? What does she mean by that?

“Thank you for coming back to me. Thank you….Thank you.” She continues.

She grabs at my neck and holds on like her life depends on it. Like she’ll drown if she ever lets go. Endearments and thanks are whispered into my ear. Her tears fall onto my heated skin.

I push her back to see her face clearly and smooth her silky, silvery hair. I am bewitched by her. She is my calm in the storm. Touching her is the only thing that has brought peace in this fucking maelstrom of a day.

I kiss her long and deep. Tasting her tears and breathing in her scent. I can finally think straight.

“I’m here Lisichka.” I say with conviction.

She grabs my arms, back and chest. Like she still can’t believe I’m physically in front of her.

“I kept seeing images of you dead. Shot. Blood everywhere…It didn’t matter what place I went. You were dead!” She practically screams.

I am worried she will hyperventilate or go catatonic again.”

“Cecily! I’m right in front of you!” I say with a commanding voice to break her downward spiral.

She shakes her head in acknowledgement as tears stream down her cheeks and fall onto her shirt. She grabs at me again and kisses every inch of my face.

I can’t stand seeing her this way. I pick her up and carry her upstairs to our bedroom. She melts into my body. I need her to calm down. She needs to quell the chaos in her head.

I walk though the bedroom straight to the master bath and turn on the water to the tub. Cecily is sitting across my lap, watching as the water streams out of the faucet.

“ I want bubbles.” She sniffs. She reaches for a bottle with lavender and mint body wash. The scent instantly fills the bathroom and awakens my senses. Bubbles fill the tub and float on the water. I first undress myself, then my wife. I lower us into the steamy, bubbly water. Cecily lays against my chest. Her body captured by mine. I pull her closer to me. My arms encircling her. She traces the tattoos along my arms with her finger like she’s trying to memorize their shape. I can hear her breathing regulate. Mine does too. I rest my head against a towel rolled up along the shelf at the end of the bathtub. It is quiet. The only sound is our breathing and the drip of water from the faucet. We lay in this relaxed state for a while before Cecily’s words break the silence.

“I have something to show you.” She is practically whispering. There is a hint of nervousness in her voice.

“Did something happen today?”

She gives me the most exasperated look. “Ah Yes!” She huffs like a bratty teenager. She blows out a breath of air. Instantly her features soften.

“Sorry. A lot happened today. I still haven’t been able to process it all.” She interlaces her fingers with mine and leans down to kiss them.

“Me either.” I think for a bit. “I still don’t know how Niko’s doing. It’s driving me crazy.”

She turns her head toward me and there are tears in her eyes again. “What Niko did is so amazing. So heroic. I wonder how Bran feels about it all?”

“He’s overwhelmed and pissed at me.” I stop talking so that I can find the right words.

“No way! Bran’s not like that. He knows it’s not your fault. Niko acted of his own accord. Niko was being Niko.”

“I know Bran’s not that way, Lisichka. But I saw his eyes. He does blame me to some extent.” That realization brings a chill to me. Part of me believes he’s right. If I hadn’t argued and belittled Christian, none of this would have happened.

Cecily changes the subject. And repeats. “I have something to show you.” She gets out of the tub. Bubbles and water dripping from her body. She quickly wraps herself in a towel, without drying off, and walks into the bedroom. I can only sit up and watch her. She pulls something out of her nightstand drawer and hides it within the confines of the towel.

She comes back and sits on the edge of the tub facing me.

“What did you get?” I ask suspiciously. I don’t know how much more I can take today.

Cecily looks at me with those big green eyes and I see joy in them even though there are still tears.

“Here.” She places a white piece of plastic into my hands. It’s a pregnancy test. It’s positive. I stare at the test. I stare at her. Dumbfounded.

“I’m pregnant.” Cecily announces. “I had just taken the tests this morning. Before all the chaos happened.” She waves her arms in the air to show that chaos encompassed everything around us.

“Tests?”

“I took 3 just to make sure. They all said the same thing. I can show them to you if you want.” I shake my head no.

“I believe you, Lisichka.” I laugh.

Her eyes are so big and bright. A smile ghosting on her lips. I can tell she is happy about this. Elated even. She wants me to be happy too. I am happy for her. I suddenly realize that I am so happy for us. I am so fucking happy! This was the best news. The only news to clear my brain of its fog and root me back in place.

I grab her waist and pull her back into the sudsy water, towel and all. She squeals and kisses me.

“Are you sure you’re okay with this? I know it’s not something we planned.”

“It’s amazing Lisichka. Just like you.”

Her face lights up and it ignites that fire in my heart that only burns for her.

“I realized yesterday that I was late. I am usually like clockwork. You usually know when my cycle hits too.”

I shake my head yes. I haven’t been paying enough attention lately. For the second time today, I instantly feel guilty. Guilt is not an emotion that sits well with me.

She continues talking. “I have been so busy studying for my psychology boards that…” she pauses,”I forgot to get my shot.” She says sheepishly.

Cecily has been working nonstop to pass her board exams. She’s spending every waking moment studying either at home or at the university library. Her examinations are in a month.

“I’m sorry. I don’t want to pressure you into anything you don’t want or aren’t ready for.”

“I’m not pressured, Lisichka. I want this baby.”

It’s true. I can’t believe how much I actually do want this child. We haven’t really spoken seriously about kids. We knew we wanted a family, but that was it. Our careers and relationship seemed to take precedence over everything. She smiles and kisses my chest then lays her cheek against me.

“This is something I have always wanted, which was why today was so hard for me. I couldn’t stop crying.”

I look down at her and shake my head in understanding.

“What if something had happened to you?” She whispers as if she spoke any louder she would let all the demons devour her.

I can’t deny her feelings. Hell they crossed my mind too. It’s just the life we both embraced so that we could be together.

“Are you going to What If? for the rest of our lives Cecily?”

“No.”

“Then don’t!” I say forcefully. “It’s not good for you or us…Or that little human inside you.” I rub along the side of her stomach. I inwardly smile at the thought of a little baby with her glittery green eyes. That is all

“I don’t want to know the sex of the baby. I want to be surprised, okay?”

“Okay”

“Also, I want our child to have green eyes. Like me and mum.”

It’s like she’s reading my mind.

“And I want them to have your gorgeous dark hair.”

Obviously she’s thought about this before. Fuck me. I want that too. Cecily settles her body into me even more now. Looking comfortable and dreamy thinking of the baby that will soon be a part of our lives. We sit in the tub until the water chills. We dry each other off and get into bed. I am sitting up against the headboard with pillows at my back, Cecily sleeps nestled in my lap. Head on my chest. I feel the best sitting this way. I know she is protected. I can’t sleep though. All the events of the day are swirling around me.

I work through the night on my phone with Cecily sleeping on my chest. Sleep just isn’t possible today. At 2:45am my phone buzzes with a text from Bran.

Brandon King: Nico woke up. He’s groggy, but himself. We spoke a little then they gave him a sedative. They want him to sleep more.

10 minutes later……….

Brandon King: Dr. Agopov will be in for rounds at 7am. We can ask her any questions then.

Bran is actually inviting me to speak to the doctor with him and most likely Kyle and Rai. Maybe he doesn’t resent me as much as I thought?

I can finally relax some. Nico is okay.

Chapter Text

Turns out I slept about 2 hours last night. It’s like I’m in college again. I get up, take a shower and get dressed. I chose all black today. It’s easy. My brain isn’t up for color choices.

Cecily is sleeping soundly with her hands wrapped around a pillow and her body burritoed in the comforter. She looks peaceful. That is how she should always look. Especially now.

I go downstairs for a coffee and make Cecily some waffles. I wrap them up for later and place a note on top. I text Cecily’s security detail that she is to go to my parents house today. Cecily agreed and Yan said he would keep watch. I don’t want her to have another sleep paralysis episode.

Ilya has the car, and is waiting for me in front of the house. We head to the Bratva hospital to see Niko and hear what the doctor has to say.

When I arrive in the hospital room, Kyle and Rai are already there. Bran is there of course. He never left last night. I don’t think I’ve seen him so disheveled. His clothes are wrinkled, there are gray patches under his eyes and stubble along his face. He does seem happier today though. More alive.

Rai immediately gives me a hug and says “Good morning Jer. I’m so glad you can be here for our talk with the doctor.” It’s at this moment I realize Rai has been treating me as her son’s best friend. Like she’s a surrogate mother. I loathed her treatment yesterday. I felt like a kid. Her subordinate. But that’s not it. She is a caretaker through and through. I relax somewhat. Kyle gives me a slap on the back. His anger seems to have faded. He’s back to his typical nonchalance. I look at Bran. He gives me a nod hello and a smile. Progress from yesterday. I’ll take it.
My attention shifts to the hospital bed. Niko is still in that deep sleep. I don't know what I expected. I know he’s on sedatives so he’ll continue sleeping, but I guess I envisioned more signs of life. Bran is telling us about his conversation with Niko last night.

“He was pretty out of it. Anything he said sounded like he was drunk.” Bran chuckled at the thought. “He kept harping on the fact that he has male nurses.”

“What?” Rai questioned. “He didn’t like the nurses?”

“It wasn’t that, it was more like he was surprised by them. Kept calling them dudes.”

“That sounds like my son.” Kyle says.

More chuckles. Bran is clearly so happy that Niko woke up. He continues.

“He didn’t remember much about yesterday morning. I asked him but he didn’t really respond. It must have been too soon.”

Doctor Agapov enters with two other people. They are wearing scrubs too. Not sure who they are and she doesn’t introduce them. She says that Nico is medically as well as can be expected after the trauma of yesterday. He will be monitored for pain and possible infection of his wound. She wants him to sleep as much as possible which is why he is on a high dose of an IV sedative. She also reminded us about not doing anything that will upset or agitate him. Fuck! That’s going to be a challenge. He hates being forced to do anything. The doctor says she’ll see us tomorrow unless something happens.

Kyle and Rai look at Bran and his rumpled state.

“Bran, you should go home and shower and change.” Kyle suggests.

“Maybe even sleep a little.” Rai adds.

Bran looks over himself. “You’re right. I should shower. But I’m returning right after. I don’t want to be away too long. What if Niko wakes up?”

“We’ll be here.” Rai states.

“No need. I’m fine. I won’t be gone long.” Bran says brooking a tone of no arguments. “I don’t want to be away for too much time. I want to be here when Niko wakes up.” Bran gives his in-laws a determined look.

Well, fuck me. The usually quiet prince is showing his mettle. Good for him. But he’s right. Niko is not going to be okay if Bran is gone from his side. I know my best friend. Nothing calms him down anymore, but Brandon King.

“I’ll drive you home.” I volunteer.

Bran looks surprised for a split second then says “Okay, let’s go.” Then of course his proper upbringing emerges. “Thank you Jer.”

Wow. That is the first time Bran has ever called me Jer. He must be feeling better.

“You’re welcome.” Is my only reply.

Bran kisses Niko’s cheek. Tells him he'll be right back and hurries out the door with me in tow.

The car ride to Bran and Niko’s house is quiet at first. Then Bran leans towards me and says

“I know…”

I can’t fathom what he knows. About the baby? No way. That can’t be it. My head is reeling. I just give him a blank stare.

“I know it’s not your fault.” He says quietly. “I know Niko was doing what comes naturally to him.”

I shake my head. I feel guilty about what happened, but I don’t think I’m ready to admit that yet. At least not to Bran.

When we get to the house Bran runs inside and I follow. Their brownstone is beautifully decorated and colorful. It is a perfect blending of the artful tradition that Bran favors and the modern sleekness that is more Niko. Even though when they moved in Niko told me he didn’t care what Bran did to the house as long as he was happy with it. That seems to be his usual response to things nowadays. As long as Bran is happy, Niko is too.

I sit in an armchair in the living room to wait for Bran. While listening to him run around upstairs and water running from the shower, I give Cecily a call.

“Good morning Lisichka. How are you feeling?”

She doesn’t answer my question. She instantly asks “What did the doctor say about Niko?”

”He’s doing as well as expected. That’s all she said. They are watching for signs of infection or fever. That’s it for now. He was asleep the entire time.”

”Oh. Well at least it’s somewhat positive.” Then she adds, “I’m good.” She sighs. “Thank you for the waffles. You know those always cheer me up.”

“I know.” It does my heart good to hear the smile on her face.

“Just to let you know, I made an appointment to see my doctor this morning.”

“What? When?”

She hesitates. “It’s in thirty minutes. They had a cancellation.”

I hesitate then say “Okay, I’ll just…”

Cecily interrupts me and starts talking at break-neck speed.

“I know you want to come with me, but I also know how important seeing Niko is to you. You don’t have to come this time, Jeremy. It’s okay. I’m just getting the process started. You can be there for the next one.”

“I want to be there for you. Are you really sure this is okay?”

“Of course, Jer.”

“You will call me right after.” Not a question.

“Of course! Give Niko a hug for me. You know I want to see him. Say thank you.”

“I know Lisichka. We’ll see. Don’t forget to call me.”

“I won’t. Love you.”

“Love you too.”

Am I a bad father for not going to the doctor’s appointment? Cecily said it was okay. Maybe I should just drop Bran off and then go to the appointment. As I’m ruminating about this decision I get a text from my wife who apparently knows me too well.

My Lisichka: Going to a doctor’s appointment doesn’t make you a good father. Being a good person does. A good person supports their friends when they’re in need. 💖

How the fuck does she do that?

Me: Stop reading my mind Lisichka.

My Lisichka: Stop being so predictable. Love you Jer. 💖

Fucking adorable.

Quicker than I expected, Bran comes down the stairs, looking like his perfect self, in jeans and a white polo shirt. His face is shaved and his hair still slightly damp. He seems ready to go.

“Can we stop at the cafe down the street? I put in a breakfast order for Niko.“

“Sure.”

“Hospital food is notoriously awful and I want Niko to eat, if he can.”

“You’ve spoiled him. He never used to care about food. Now he’s picky about it.”

Bran just smiles. ”It’s one of the ways I keep him coming home.” His smile falters, “I wonder how long it will be before he gets to do that? Hopefully not too long.”

“I hope it's not too long either. For everyone’s sake.”

Bran just gives me a look of understanding. We know Niko will struggle being in the confines of the hospital.

Chapter Text

Bran practically sprints to the hospital entrance as soon as we park. I walk calmly, not willing to keep up with his energy this morning. During my steady ascent up the front steps, my phone buzzes. It’s Cecily.

“Done Already?” I ask. Too eager to hear what she found out.

“Jeremy Volkov. No Hello? No love of my life? Not even a Hi? I’m not one of your security detail people.” She sounds annoyed.

I roll my eyes. Knowing I fucked up and Cecily’s reaction to it will get me a lecture later. I can feel it.

“Hello Lisichka. Love of my life. I would like to know what the doctor said.”

Newly placated, Cecily explains in a much calmer tone. ”He said everything seems fine. We both are in good health. He estimates that I am about 7 weeks pregnant….Oh!” She says excitedly, “He asked if I wanted to hear the heartbeat, but I decided to wait until you can hear it with me. I want our first time to be together. “

My heart skips a beat. This just feels so real now. I’m speechless for a second ”Wow! Okay. I can’t wait to hear it. What else?”

”Not much else. We discussed ways to stay healthy. I have to cut down my caffeine intake by a lot. Only one drink per day. That will be crazy hard. You know how I love my coffee and tea.”

”And energy drinks.” I add. She thinks I don’t know that she drinks those when studying, but of course, I do.

She is quiet for a second, but continues without comment. “Well, I figure if Ava could do it. So can I.”

”You will do it.” I tell her.

“Of course! I want to do everything right for our baby.”

I can hear the mama bear tone coming out of her. One thing I am sure of more than anything is that Cecily Knight Volkov will be an amazing mother.

She continues her summary of the visit. “He also gave me a prescription for prenatal vitamins and a list of foods that I shouldn’t eat while pregnant.”

”I want to see that list.”

”I bet you do. You love it when you can hold something over my head.” Said with a teasing, bratty attitude.

Even though I smile at her words, I can’t help it. I remind her that I am not in the right frame of mind for that quite yet. ”Cecily, don't push it.”

”Sorry.”

I can imagine the blush in her cheeks that happens whenever she realizes she's pushed me too far.

”I just got back to the hospital. Hopefully Niko is awake now.”

”Yes! Go and see him. Let me know how he’s doing. Don’t forget to give him my love.”

”I won't." I deadpan. “Don’t forget to get your prescription filled.”

”Already in process. I love you so much.”

”Love you too.”

I stare at Cecily’s picture on my phone. How did I get so lucky with her? While standing on the stairs at the front of the building, I take in the quiet street scene. Yesterday was so chaotic. The day felt like a year. Too much happened. Today seems different. I feel like my brain has time to catch up and process everything. I turn on my heel and enter the hospital ready to see my brave, reckless friend.

I enter Niko’s room and he mostly looks like himself. Thank fuck! However, his skin has a grayish pallor and his movements are slow and lethargic (for him). Probably due to the sedatives. However, he is sitting in his bed with a grin on his face eating from the many containers of food Bran bought for him. Bran is on his right smiling too, but intently watching every move Niko makes. Rai is on his left doing pretty much the same thing. I can tell that neither Bran or Rai will let him get away with anything or let anything slide on the hospital’s side. It’s written all over their faces. In contrast, Kyle just sits on the small couch with his typical air of nonchalance. A faint smile ghosting his lips, enjoying the view of his family. It’s actually a comforting scene.

I see that Niko is alive and whole, and am just so relieved. I audibly sigh. I rarely sigh, but when I do Niko is usually the reason. Without thinking, I walk to his bed, put my palms on either side of his face, and plant a big kiss on his forehead. Niko chuckles. Then I say dramatically, “You fucking idiot. Don’t ever do that again!” I am practically yelling at this point. “Bran should beat your ass for that stunt!”

Bran’s eyes pop at my outburst. He is shocked all to hell. Then he turns his head towards Niko to see his reaction.

Niko’s eyes narrow and he looks at me with thinly veiled anger. Obviously this is not what he expected me to say.

”Not a stunt.” He says matter of factly. “If I hadn’t pushed you out of the way, you would be here.” He points at the bed. “Or worse…”

That stops me cold for a second. He’s right.

Niko must see my distress because he tries to lighten the atmosphere with a joke. “The score is 2-0 motherfucker. You need to catch up. Hey, what are bros for?” Everyone laughs but me.

This isn’t helping calm my mood. I can feel my face heat and turn red. With acute clarity I realize, it totally is the second time he’s protected my life with his. This can’t happen again! Consequences be damned! This. Stops. Today!

I tell him with my most serious tone, “I owe you Niko. This is on me.” I point to the hospital room. “I know that. I should have kept my mouth shut in that stupid meeting. I should have just let Christian think that his demands meant nothing, then dealt with him quietly.” I take a breath to try and keep calm. “I allowed him to push my buttons. Reminded me of someone else who used to do that.”

I give a quick look towards Bran. I can’t help it. His brother, fucker Landon, doesn’t bother me as much anymore, but that motherfucker used to rile me until my blood boiled. It would cloud my judgement and make me impulsive. Something that is not typical for me.

I take another breath. “Never again!” I say emphatically. “Thank you for protecting me. For protecting Cecily. Niko, act first, think later has always been your M.O, but you have a family now.” I point to Bran. “You need to think about that as well. Promise me!”

Niko shakes his head in agreement, then looks at Bran, who has tears falling down his cheeks. Niko looks pained, almost as much as he did yesterday after getting shot. He grabs Bran’s hand and kisses it with so much passion. So much love. Then, it’s as if the rest of the world doesn’t exist for him because Brandon King is Niko’s whole world.

“This won’t happen again Baby, I promise.” Niko pleads while Bran shakes his head.

Bran’s response is shattering. He palms Niko’s cheek and says, “You said that you would always come home to me. I am holding you to that for the rest of our lives.”

Niko just agrees and rubs his cheek against Bran’s hand, but says assuredly, “I will.”

It’s at this moment that I know, Niko will not be saving me anymore. He has a husband to protect and keep happy. I’m glad he finally gets it. Niko will protect his family and I will protect mine. Even if we’re best friends. That is the way it has to be. For everyone's sake.

Chapter Text

Niko’s time in the hospital was a mix of Niko being a needy, clingy puppy or a grumpy, scary asshole. Let’s just say it was a LONG week. Now, I fully understand where these feelings stem from. Niko was hurt and incapacitated in the worst way. He was also on a shitload of medications, from antibiotics to heavy duty pain killers, not to mention the sedatives that immediately knocked him out. Also, he is Nikolai Sokolov and has never been able to sit still to save his life. Due to all of this, he was only happy when Bran was around. He tolerated his parents and me. Everyone else, nurses and doctors included, were on his shitlist.

Niko always told me stories of how Bran could be a “controlling asshole” (Niko’s words, not mine). I never really believed him or maybe couldn’t quite picture it because around me, Bran is always a polite, quiet artist type. He seems to go with the flow. But seeing him at the hospital hovering and fussing over his injured husband was something I did not expect. Bran was a force. He was quick to tell everyone their assignment for the day, including Niko. Especially Niko. My best friend just went with it. Usually with a smile on his face. Sometimes, he would clench his jaw in frustration, but would ultimately acquiesce and do what Bran wanted. Rai always took Bran’s side and Kyle would just look amused at how whipped, excuse me, cared for, his son was, by his husband. It is actually an interesting dynamic to watch.

Many of their conversations were along the vein of:

“Nikolai, eat the eggs first, you need the protein most.” Bran states in a bossy tone. Rai shakes her head in agreement. At this comment, Niko takes a breath to object, looks at Bran’s face then surrenders. “Yes, Lotus Flower.” Said like a chastised puppy. Immediately, all frustration gone. He goes back to being perfectly content because he got a smile and a kiss on the cheek from Bran.

This one was my favorite instance. Niko complained because his beloved hamburger didn’t come with French fries and Bran just took him to task. ”Nikolai, the doctor put you on a low sodium diet. No french fries. I got you a salad instead.” Niko whines, “But I’m suffering!” Bran retorts, “What are you? Five? Stop being dramatic.” In response, Niko begins to loudly stab the salad with his fork, while giving everyone a good amount of side eye. He eventually eats without further comment. Kyle and I busted a gut at that one. We might have even ribbed Niko a bit for his tantrum. That earned us a death glare and a harshly worded “Really?” from Bran. Not to mention, a lecture and a warning of possible ejection from the room by Rai.

Overall, no matter how controlling Bran acts. He is unfailing in the fact that Niko’s comfort comes first and foremost.

He demanded a Bluetooth connection to the T.V. in the room. “My husband wants to watch his movies. A phone or a laptop are too small to watch an entire movie on. I don’t want his eyes to tire.” He got it right away.

“Since my husband is sitting in his bed the entire day, isn’t it protocol that the sheets be changed daily?” Yes, Niko's sheets were changed every morning by a member of the staff, then Bran would redo it because he didn’t like how the hospital staff made the bed.

Anytime Bran started a conversation with a member of the hospital staff by saying, “My Husband…” you knew he was demanding something or wasn’t happy with something. And he always got what he asked for.

Personally, I think Bran’s good looks, soft smile, polite manners and that damn British accent got him everything he wanted. The staff, especially the females, would melt. But then they saw the menacing glares Niko threw their way and would exit the room like their ass was on fire. I suspect that Bran loves that he’s married to a possessive, unhinged motherfucker like Niko, but would never admit it out loud. At least not to me. He pretends to chastise Niko for his over the top behavior, but the corner of his lips tilt up in a sneaky grin every time.

Even though Bran was demanding and at times, critical, he did it all for Niko. While Niko slept, Bran would be in the chair right next to him and hold his hand the entire time. He would sketch, read a book, text, talk to us. But his hand never broke contact with his husband’s. When Niko would wake up, Bran would get the biggest smile on his face. There was definitely a look of love and pride in his eyes. He would shave and bathe Niko. He made sure that Niko always had enough pillows, blankets, comfortable clothes, food, and movies to keep him distracted. I am glad to see that my best friend has someone who dotes on him as much as Bran does. Niko deserves it.

Outwardly, most people, me included, think that Niko and Bran are too different to be a couple. But when you see them together it’s evident. They complete each other perfectly. Their yin yang vibe is the strength that their relationship requires. Who am I to question it?

***************

During this time, I am working to find out as much intell I can about the fucker Christian Belova. I need to find out who gave him access to the Bratva. This is becoming an obsession at this point. I have my father helping me, as well as Gaz and his husband Kayden. We all want to make sure that Niko’s honor is avenged.

Knowing what I do about the ways in which the Bratva works and being my father’s heir, I understand that information is the highest form of currency. I have to do my digging without letting other members of the inner circle find out what I am looking for. Especially since I am trying to uncover a rat, or more likely, a cockroach. One I want to stomp on with my heel and fucking obliterate.

In a stroke of luck, Kaden’s hacker friend Jethro found the important bit of information we needed. The link between Christian Bellova and the Bratva was made. The only piece of the puzzle that is still missing is how Christian made his way to the inner circle, hence the morning meeting. I have a hunch that seems plausible, but I need confirmation. I need to bring the meeting to Niko. He deserves to know what I found out.

Chapter Text

It’s been one week since the last meeting with the New York Bratva’s inner circle. One week since all the shit with the asshole Christian went down. The inner circle is mostly in attendance with the exception of Niko. Rai and Kyle are sitting to my right. My father Adrian, sits at my left next to the Pakhan, Kirill Morozov. Kirill’s second Viktor is next to him. Damien Orlov, the other King, and his second are sitting directly across from me. Vaughn and his boyfriend Yulian, who are in Chicago right now, are attending the meeting virtually. Their faces visible from a screen on the wall that is directly across from the table. Everyone, as always, sits around the large table, coffee or tea in hand. There is a platter of breakfast pastries in the center. The only one who indulges is Damien. Niko usually joins him in eating the sweets. I swear Niko got his sweet-tooth from hanging around Damien too much as a child. He was infatuated with that man, much to Kyle’s annoyance.

Everyone is quietly waiting for someone to start the conversation. We all know that the only thing being discussed today is the shitshow that happened last week. Eyes, searching each other for a person with the needed information to start talking. I am that person. So with a nod from Kirill, I start the meeting.

“I have sent you all a detailed background of Christian Bellova. AKA, Christian Bell.” Everyone reaches for their phones and opens the document. We have a very private, heavily secured server that only the inner circle has access to.

I continue, “Christian Bellova was born and raised in Galveston Texas. Christian’s mother changed their last name to Bell after his father’s mysterious death in a car accident due to brake failure when he was three. She feared mafia influence in her husband’s death and didn’t want her son affected. After graduating high school, he was awarded a scholarship to study computer science at Stanford University in California. His mother died five years ago due to cancer. Obviously, we couldn’t question her about her waste of space son.”

I take a breath, feeling like I have already talked a lot. More than I normally do in a meeting. But I continue.

“This is where things gets interesting. Christian gives up his scholarship and leaves Stanford after two years. Over the next four years, he worked for several tech start up companies around Silicon Valley before starting his own. Get this…” I want everyone to pay attention to the next part. “The people who work for him are paid in a manner like a pyramid scheme. So he pockets most of the income they make. The people eventually quit and then he would just start a new company.”

Yulian coughs into his hand, “Douche!” Like a frat boy. Damien chuckles. Kirill just rolls his eyes and says “Continue Jeremy.”

“In addition to the tech companies, he also created a few apps that gained some income for him. There is actually no evidence that he invests in the stock market or the like, but he manages to amass a fortune of about twenty million dollars over a total of ten years.”

Kyle asks, “How did he come to have so much money? I realize he would have some, but not that much.” Most people at the table nod in agreement with Kyle’s assessment.

“Probably using the same investment scheme he proposed to use for V-Corp.” My father explains.

Kirill looks suspicious and says “The scheme of taking a penny from each financial transaction a company makes? That made him twenty million?”

I explain further, ”Collecting pennies on each transaction made from a supposed computer glitch, which is actually a virus that he designed and inputs into an investment firm’s computer system. His proposal has a huge flaw. It makes money too quickly and it's too hard to hide from federal agencies. These smaller companies quickly realize this and tell Christian to remove the glitch and get the fuck out. He would go, but instead of removing the program he just reprogrammed the glitch. He would continue making money from it, while the company no longer did. Due to the illegal nature of the deal to begin with, no company would report it or even talk about it, fearing blowback, so he got away with it. Christian then hid his money in several offshore private bank accounts.”

I take a break from talking to look at everyone to gauge how well they are keeping up. Most of the people look upset, especially Rai. V-Corp is her baby. She took over the company and it has grown exponentially under her leadership. She has carefully trained Niko and I to take over and continue its success after she steps down. The problem with Christian’s idea is that he didn’t consider our knowledge of business and how it works. We would never allow something like his stupid scheme to infiltrate V-Corp. It’s the most successful legitimate company the New York Bratva has. We wouldn’t mess with its standing and let some random Tech Bro fuck with it.

“Christian wanted to make some quick money and thought we were stupid enough to just blindly agree. He kept speaking to me as if I was some underling and not the CFO of the company.” Rai spits out. Her anger palpable. Then she looks right at Kirill and says, “How did Christian ever get access to this meeting with this asinine idea?” She pauses for a second to calm herself. “I told him point blank there was no way in hell he would get access to any information regarding V Corp.”

My father and I know how Christian got access to the meeting. It shocked us, but I need confirmation in front of the group. It can’t be me to say it. I look at the Pakhan.

Kirill sighs, then admits “I gave the okay, for Christian to attend the meeting.” His voice sounds assured, like it was the correct thing to do.

Rai straightens in her seat and gives him a glare of pure menace. “Why?”

”Because I need to know that this organization will survive after I pass it on.” Kirill looks at the screen on the wall and gives his son a long look. Then his attention turns back to Rai and points right at her. “So do you.”

Rai tries to quell the oncoming rage that is showing on her face. “So this was a game? Some sort of test? My son was shot!” Each word said with a hiss of seething anger. I watch as Kyle slides closer to his wife and places a hand on her thigh.

“Look around the room, Rai. We’ve all been shot protecting this!” Kirill glances around the table. “You’re just lucky, it never happened to you. Over the years, you certainly took reckless chances that should have meant your death.”

”What is that supposed to mean?” Rai bites out.

“How many times did you pull out a gun and run after some asshole who took a shot anywhere near your grandfather or great-uncle?” He pauses and runs a hand over his face, already looking tired of this conversation. “We have people whose job it is to do that, but you went anyway.”

”And?”

“And you showed how determined, how loyal, how far you were willing to go to protect the brotherhood. That is what is necessary from the people who sit at this table.” He slams his hand down on the table. “I had to make sure that level of commitment existed within the next generation. I was not going to let even a crack of weakness due to avarice enter this room under my watch. There is too much at stake.” He takes a deep breath, then gives Rai a challenging look. ”So what are you gonna do Rai?”

Rai just sits there. Her body tense. Her lips pursed. Her eyes narrowed. But she doesn’t act. You can see her processing what Kirill said.

“Bastard.” Kyle says with terrifying calmness, while giving Kirill a death glare.

My father raised me with the knowledge that Kyle Hunter was never to be underestimated. He told me his charm and calm demeanor was a ruse, like a spider’s web. Never get caught by it. This is exactly what he means.

The tension in the air is palpable. Kyle and Rai are glaring at Kirill and he is glaring right back. No one moves, blinks or breathes. But then Damien speaks.

“I told the Pakhan about Bellova’s idea.” Every head turns in Damien’s direction. “You know me, I’m no business man. I just blow shit up or beat it to death. Bellova told me about his idea. About how much money he made. Sounded like a lot. Said he would invest as much as we did.” He puts his hands up in a placating manner. He protects the Pakhan with his admission. That is so like Damien. He is fiercely loyal to the Bratva and its leader. “So I said, talk to Kirill and Rai.”

Rai turns her attention back to Kirill. “So how did Christian get to come to the meeting after I told him No?”

”I never knew that happened. Damien, did you?”

Damien shakes his head No.

Kirill points his finger at Rai again. “No one, including yourself, told me that he went to visit V Corp and talked to you beforehand. I found out from Jeremy at the meeting like everyone else, when he said that you, Nikolai and him had all said No to that stupid fucking proposal.”

The look Rai gives Kirill is murderous. But I can tell she knows that we all fucked up last week and Niko paid the price.

“Okay.” Rai says slowly and then takes Kyle’s hand in hers. It’s as if she’s trying to stop herself from reacting in a rash manner. She then turns towards me and asks, “What else did you find out about Christian.” The tension begins to die down a bit. Thank fuck.

“There are many problematic things about Bellova. He thinks he’s a tough guy. One of those Alpha Male types. There is evidence that he played toy soldier with groups like the Proud Boys and Oathkeepers.” I see the disgusted look on everyone's face.

“What a bunch of fucking pussies.” Damien spits out.

“People that are loyal to those groups will never be trustworthy.” I add. “They are clowns…”

Kirill interrupts, “We won’t allow their like in our ranks.”

I show pictures of Christian. “He went on a few safari hunting trips where he killed animals he deemed cool or rare. He would brag about it all over social media.”

Kyle looks at the pictures and shakes his head. He is holding his phone so tight his knuckles are white.

Vaughn speaks for the first time. “He killed a fucking giraffe?” He speaks with disgust.

“Yeah, and a lioness. A female. The caretakers. Mothers of the other lions.” I say with anger.

“Christian was a dick of the highest order.” Rai interjects.

As the news about Christian continues, more and more bullshit is revealed about the slimy fucker.

The general consensus of the group is that the world is better off without Christian Bellova.

“Pakhan, I would like to continue the meeting at the hospital so Nikolai can know what we’ve discovered.

Kirill just nods his head. “Agreed. We’ll reconvene in an hour.” Then he looks to Rai. “Call Nikolai and make sure he’s ready.”

“Oh, he will be.” Rai says assuredly.

Chapter Text

Nikolai

Since I got the call that the morning meeting is coming to me, I have been mentally prepping myself. I've been so on edge this week. I hate the fucking hospital. I need to get it the fuck together and keep it together. I can’t let Jer or my parents down. I’m worried though. Due to Bratva security, I had to kick my Lotus Flower out of the room and he’s the only person keeping me sane right now. It’s going to take every bit of control I have to not lose it.

I watch as trays of drinks and a laptop are delivered to the room. I get out of bed and grab a coffee. Bran would throw a fit right now if he saw me walking around without help and drinking caffeine. But I need the boost. My brain has been asleep the past week and I need to be as sharp as possible.

The door cracks open. It’s dad. “Niko, you ready?”

“Yeah dad. Come on in.”

He gives me a hug and a quick once over. He looks at the gray sweat pants and zip up hoodie I’m wearing and smirks. “You look good son.” He says with a wink.

“Bullshit.” I correct him. “You’re just amazed, I’m dressed.”

“That’s the truth.” He chuckles.

Dad opens the door and says “Come on in.”

The Bratva inner circle walks into the room led by Jer. Fuck. Why do I feel so vulnerable right now? Everyone enters the room and finds a place to sit. My mom is the last person to arrive. She comes straight to me and gives me a kiss on the cheek. Jeremy’s dad, Adrian, does the same. Fuck me! He whispers “Thank you.” into my ear. That is a lot for him. That man is a vault emotion-wise. I know he’s grateful. But the way I see it, I didn’t do anything that Jer wouldn’t have done for me. Finally, the Pakhan approaches and pats my shoulder in a fatherly way.

“How are you holding up Nikolai? Having been in your shoes more than once, I say you look good.”

”Thank you sir. I’ve been well taken care of.”

I am always my most polite, controlled self around Kirill Morozov. I want to be respected by him. I treat him, just like I treat my father-in-law, Levi. Even though Kirill is A LOT scarier. But, hey, I respect that.

Jer sets up the laptop so that Vaughn and Yulian can join the meeting too.

Over the last week, I have been messaging V through the Heathens group chat. He knows how I’m doing. Yulian, not so much. He points at me through the screen and says “You look good man.”

”Thanks man.” I pick up my right arm and wave in his direction.

I quickly turn my attention back to the people in the room with me. I don’t want to get caught up in Yulian’s theatrical shit right now.

Jer taps on his phone and says “Niko, open the server and see the info we’ve got on Christian.” I frown. That fucker is the reason I’m in the hospital in the first place. What an asshole! The last thing I want to do is read about his pathetic life. But I pick up my phone and put in the code for the server. Instantly a document with too many pages and questionable pictures pop up. It’s eerily quiet while I go through everything. So Christian’s an even bigger asshole than I previously thought. Sur-Fuckin-Prize. NOT! Some of the details I read have my blood boiling. I should have killed him slower. Too bad I didn’t get the chance. Looks like there is someone else I get to take my fury out on. And I’m going to relish every second of it.

I look up from my phone when I’m done perusing the document. Everyone is watching me, waiting to see my reaction. I school my face to remain calm even though I’m seething right now. In order to remain composed I ask a few questions to the group.

“That asshole really made twenty mil off of his stupid idea?”

Jer answers quickly, “Yeah, A lot of it is from that. Some of the money is from apps he created or pay he gouged from his staff.”

”No one ever questioned him on it?”

Are people really that idiotic or is this man just lucky? I can’t believe the shit Christian pulled over multiple companies and other Techies and no one said a fucking word. Jesus Fucking Christ!

”Apparently, not many. But as you read, the people he hung around with aren’t known for their thinking skills.” Jer says with disdain.

”Evidently! So how did he get to come to the meeting last week? I know you, mom and I all told the fucker no to his proposal the day before.” I address Kirill, “Pakhan, I even told him no again before the meeting started. He tried to sway me again. This time with a promise of a double share of the profits, if I took his side. Like that would have ever fucking happened.”

”I know.” Kirill answers. “You protected our interests. Just as you should have. To be clear, I allowed him into the meeting. I just had to make sure no more vermin like him showed up ever again.”

I see my mother’s face darken at this admission. I can tell, she’s not happy about it one bit. But I get it. I don’t mind being challenged by the Pakhan. I didn’t do anything wrong. I know who I’m loyal to. Then, I realize that Kirill is continuing to talk while my mind has been wandering. Shit!

“What you don’t know is that I made Christian stand behind his promise of investment to the brotherhood. He had to prove his assets by giving us access to his bank accounts. He bitched about it at first, but finally realized it was the only way. That money is now yours Nikolai. You earned it.”

My mind freezes for a second. What the fuck did he just say? The money is mine? Christian’s money? I can feel my eyes pop and my eyebrows rise to my hairline. There goes my fucking composure.

“I’m sorry sir, I don’t understand. Doesn’t the money go to the organization?”

”Typically yes, but in some cases where someone has been wronged, like you, the money is awarded to that person. Think of it as hazard pay.”

“What about Jer? It affected him too?”

”No Niko.” Jeremy says emphatically. “It all should go to you. I already told them that.”

Everyone is shaking their heads in agreement. Are they all okay with this money going to me? Wow! Fuck me! I am stunned. I don’t know what to say and I always have something to say.

”Thank you.” It’s the only thing I can think of.

“No thanks necessary. You earned it kid.” Damien says with a smile and a clap to my back. Fucking Fuck! All the breath leaves my body. He hit my back on the side of my wound. My face scrunches, but I refuse to yell out. I see the looks on my parents’ faces and they are ready to commit murder.

Mom yells, “Damien! His stitches! What the hell?”

Dad grabs Damien’s shoulder and punches him square in the face. Damn!

“Bloody bastard. You deserved that over 30 years ago.” My dad has never trusted Damien. However, I have always thought he was hilarious.

Everyone laughs. Kirill says “You walked right into that one Damien.”

Damien just grabs his bloody nose. “Sorry kid.” Then he shrugs and says “I’ve had worse.”

”I’m good.” I say when I can breathe again. Mom rushes to my side to check the bandage. Thank god Bran didn’t see what just happened. He would probably attack Damien like a feral raccoon. Okay, fun time over! Now back to business. I look right into Jer’s eyes and say with as much menace as I can muster.

“Who the fuck is Daniil Markov?”

Chapter Text

Jeremy
2 Months Later…

Niko was released from the hospital almost two months ago. The same day as the inner circle meeting there. Throughout this time, he has overcome the splint, decreasing pain medication, and physical therapy. He wasn’t a fan of any of it. He was downright impossible to be around at times. And I thought the hospital was bad. At least he got to go home. That was the main thing he was happy about. Well I should clarify, he was happy being at home with his husband. Even though Niko was a menace at work, I promised Bran, I would personally make sure he made it home in one piece every day. I loved that time of day when I got to drop Niko off at his house then go to my own.

Even though Niko was healing, he, Vaughn, and I were developing a plan to make an example out of the asshole who introduced Christian Bellova to our branch of the Bratva. Turns out a guard working for Damien Orlov was the culprit. His name is Daniil Markov and he is? was? second cousins with Christian Bellova. Daniil heard about his cousin’s idea and latched on without much thought. It was evident he saw this opportunity as a way to make himself some easy money, and more importantly, move up the ranks. He even bragged about it. Little did he know, his cousin’s idea was shit and would eventually get himself killed. It will also be the death of Daniil’s career with the Bratva. He just doesn’t know that yet.

Unbeknownst to Brandon, Niko has been working out with an ex-MMA fighter to get back into full shape after his injury. This coach has worked with many athletes who suffered from an injury. Said injury wasn’t usually a gunshot wound, but according to the coach, an injury is an injury. Niko was getting pretty much back to his old self even though he had to pretend his improvement was happening a lot slower than it actually was. He threatened us all to keep this on the down low because he was scared of his husband’s reaction. He said, and I quote, “Bran will lose his shit if he finds out and if that happens, I will be sleeping on your fucking couch Jer.” No fucking way!

*********************************
The Plan: Phase 1

Very simply, our goal is to expose Daniil’s disloyalty in a very public, very brutal way, so that no one else thinks messing with us is a good idea. We have the support of the Kings and especially the Pakhan. He doesn’t want anything like this happening again, EVER. We chose the day as soon as Niko was given the green light to return to all his normal activities by the doctor.

The big day starts at the gym all the Bratva members frequent. It’s a warehouse type of building with weight machines, a swimming pool, running track, basketball courts, and a boxing ring. Kirill put out the word that all New York Bratva members are required to attend. Everyone is there. As always, the inner circle members wait until everyone else is in place before entering. I walk in with my Father and Uncle Kolya. Niko enters with his parents. Damien, Vaughn, Yulian, Kirill and surprisingly Kirll’s wife Sasha are the last to enter the building. Everyone is surrounding the boxing ring. Kirill steps into the ring and speaks. His presence and deep voice overwhelming the space.

“Weakness in the New York Bratva will never be tolerated. Our ranks are only as strong as our weakest member. A cancer in the form of greed has infiltrated our organization and a member paid the price. That will never happen again.” Kirill gives the crowd a look that manages to be sincere and threatening all at the same time. Pretty normal for him. He motions to Niko who joins him in the ring.

Niko stands in front of the brotherhood looking like the mafia prince he is. His tall, muscled, tattooed frame is dressed in a dark grey suit, with a light blue shirt and black dress shoes. His hair is tied in a ponytail at his nape. His face is hard. His dark blue eyes blazing. His fists are to his sides clenching open and closed ready for the fight to come. He looks in control and able to decimate whomever crosses his path. Niko nods to the Pakhan and booms,

“Daniil Markov, you and I have a fucking score to settle. It’s about damn time. Don’t you think?” Then he smirks and allows his demons to shine through. My mind goes back to what Killian would say anytime he riled Niko up during a fight. “That’s it Niko, unleash the fucking crazy.” Because that is exactly what is happening right now. Niko’s deranged self is on full display and god help anyone who’s on the receiving end of it.

The audience is quiet, discreetly looking around trying to view the person in question. We know exactly where that asshole is. We’ve been tracking his every movement from the minute his name was revealed to be Christian’s accomplice until this very second. Damien wanted to kill Daniil as soon as he found out his identity. But he understood the need to make an example out of him. Then he wanted to be the one to do the maiming, but Niko said it had to be him. No one else. Damien respected that and apologized again for the fact that one of his men caused Niko and his family harm. Damien moves towards the middle of the crowd and grabs a man who looks to be in his early thirties, then roughly pushes him towards his fate.

Daniil Markov, like most guards in the Bratva, is a big guy with muscles and tattoos. His blonde hair is cropped close to his scalp and he has light blue almost gray eyes. Right now, with that look of shock on his face, he appears like a kid being dragged to the principal’s office. He actually has the audacity to act innocent as to why he’s being called out. Too bad for him, he bragged over social media. Even though he deleted the posts after his cousin was killed, they still existed somewhere and I found them. I always come with receipts. We also know he was the one to buy the soft-tipped bullets for his cousin. Not something we normally use and he didn’t even question the request. In our world ignorance is a liability and must be destroyed.

Niko taunts Daniil. “Okay asshole. No matter what fucking happens here today, you’re fired. But I’m sure you realize that. This is the deal. Fight me and win, you get to walk away. No questions asked. But If I win…” Niko maniacly grins, “I get to deal with you in any way I fucking want.”

Daniil looks like he’s going to throw up. He gulps and nods his head. He knows he’s fucked.

Everything happens quickly. A group of Damien’s men take Daniil to change while Vaughn, Yulian, Kyle and I accompany Niko to prep and change. He puts on black shorts and wraps his hands. As we stride back to the boxing ring, Niko takes a second to remove his wedding ring. He kisses the ring and then hands it to his mom. In turn, Rai gives her son a kiss on the cheek.

“Go get him, my little miracle. Show him who you are.”

“You know I will.” Niko grins and winks.

Daniil is already in the ring when we arrive. He looks determined. He’s probably a pretty good fighter too. He would have to be for his job, but he isn’t my unhinged best friend. The fight doesn’t last long. Niko can barely wait for the bell to start. There is no hesitation or quarter. Niko’s punches are brutal and savage. He smiles the entire time he beats Daniil to a pulp. In about 10 minutes, it's done. Niko knocks Daniil out to tremendous cheers. Ilya and Niko’s guard Dimitri drag Daniil’s limp body out the back exit. Since there really wasn’t any worry about Niko losing the fight, Phase 2 of the plan is now in play.

***********************
The Plan: Phase 2

A dank room in the basement of the Pakhan’s mansion is filled by Me, Niko, Vaughn, Gaz, Kyle and Yulian. Niko thought it would be fun to get the Heathens back together for the event. Kyle claimed parental rights in defending the honor of his son and no one was going to argue with that. We also allowed Yulian access because as a rule, he goes where V goes.

A bloodied Daniil is tethered to a metal chair bolted to the floor in the center of the room. He still wears the shorts he fought in earlier. His body, a map of cuts and bruises. There’s probably some broken bones there too. We have all been taking swings at him throughout the day. The only one not punching is Gaz who prefers to use a taser. The rule for Daniil is broken but not dead. And he is pretty much broken by this point. We are totally making an example out of him. He is even going on a tour of shame for his part in his cousin’s idiotic plan and the shooting of Niko. Yulian and V will be escorting him to Chicago, then to Boston after that. It’s harsh, but necessary.

About 3pm the door swings open and a smirking Kilian enters the room with a baseball bat leaning against his shoulder.

“Hello gentlemen. Uncle. Long time no see.” He walks to Niko and gives him a clap on the back. “Hey cousin, thanks for saving some of the fun for me.”

Niko smiles big, “You fucking know it Kill. Good to see you, man.”

The door opens again and another man with chocolate brown hair strides in. We watch in stunned silence as his head comes into view. Daniil’s eyes widen with recognition and lowkey disgust as he glances in Niko’s direction. He tries to make a stand in the only way he can while tied to a chair.

“You’re the fa…”

Before he can even finish saying that offensive word, a fist shoots out and punches him right in the crotch. Hard. OUCH! There is a crunching sound and Daniil lets out a long, painful high-pitched scream.

A condescending, and might I add annoying, British voice amplifies within the concrete space. “Oh, do I look familiar to you? Sadly, you are mistaken. I am not the man married to Nikolai.” Said with a raised eyebrow. “But, my TWIN brother is. However, I am married to the brute’s sister. So, when you fuck with him,” he points to Niko, “You get to deal with me twice over.” He tisks and lowers his voice to a menacing growl. “Also, never and I mean never, refer to my brother in that way again…” He crouches down to eye level with Daniil. “Or I will rip off your insignificant dick along with your minuscule balls and shove them down your fucking throat. Are we clear?”

While the asshole deals with Daniil, the rest of us have to physically restrain Niko over the homophobic slur. I am actually worried that we won't be able to hold him. The rage is pouring off him in waves. Niko shoves against us with all his might while shouting a litany of threats and curses that could possibly summon Satan himself. The only reason he backs down in the slightest is the sight of Daniil’s body, reddened from lack of breath with tears of pain streaming down his face and vomit covering his chest.

It takes a bit, but Niko finally calms himself to the point where he breathes normally. “What in the fucking fuck is he doing here?” The threatening tone, still in his voice.

The “He” in question is none other than his husband’s fucking clone. The biggest asshole on the planet. Landon Fucking King.

“I allowed it.” Kyle says with the suave nonchalance he’s famous for.

Niko points at his dad, “Fucking traitor.”

“What?..Obviously he’s useful in these situations.” He points to the barely breathing man in the center of the room as evidence. “Plus he made a convincing argument. You know me…Anything for my family.” Kyle says with a sly smile and a wink towards his son.

Niko just rolls his eyes.

Landon smirks at Kyle then glances around the room and nods like what just happened was an everyday occurrence. “Heathens…” he says in greeting like we’re out for a stroll in the park and not in a dingy basement beating some fuckwit to death. He adds with a shrug “Jeremy ghosted me, so I was forced to get in contact with my dear father-in-law.” To punctuate his words, Landon puts his arm around Kyle and pats his shoulder.

Thanks a lot Kyle!

Fuck right I ghosted Landon. I didn’t even know he had my number, but there he was calling and texting me all day yesterday. I just close my eyes and shake my head. I should have known. That motherfucker is too good at getting information he shouldn’t be privy to.

“Couldn’t let my wife’s and brother’s tormentor get away without a little retribution.” Landon says with an air of arrogance.

“You mean Niko’s tormentor?” I remind him.

“Wasn’t that implied?”

Fucking Arrogant Asshole!

“Hey, at least you weren’t just stuck on a plane with him for the last seven hours.” Kill says.

“You could have given us a heads up.” I tell him.

Kill gives a devious smile. “Nah, the surprise was much more fun.”

“See. You love me.” Landon says with a teasing glint in his eyes and that smirk still on his face.

“Don’t push it, asshole.” Niko replies.

Now it's Killian who turns his attention to the man in the chair. “Well, well what do we have here? Apparently, a little bitch that’s also a raging homophobe. F.Y.I. That’s not a good look in this day and age.” He puts the bat on the floor and leans against it. He peers into Daniil’s reddened eyes and puckered face. “Learned your lesson yet, motherfucker?”

Daniil wearily eyes the bat, but says nothing.

“Hmm, I’m not convinced.” Kill says slowly, then turns his attention to me. “Broken, but not dead. Right Jer?” He reaffirms. I shake my head.

Kill takes the bat and crashes it into Daniil’s upper arm followed by a powerful downward stroke to the top of his thighs. Daniil screams.

“It’s like old times.” Killian reminisces as Daniil’s tortured moans reverberate through the space.

”Except your operation just got an upgrade.” Landon says with his trademark arrogance. “You’re welcome.”

Niko looks me dead in the face and says “You can’t kill him, Jer.”

Fuck my life.

We continue teaching Daniil a lesson about the level of loyalty the Bratva requires until Niko decides he’s satisfied. Before leaving, he says "Thanks motherfuckers. This was the best welcome home party ever! Now, I need to recharge with the help of my Lotus Flower.” It’s Niko’s turn to give his brother-in-law an arrogant smirk. Landon frowns. Then Niko saunters out of the room with a huge smile on his face.

Before Daniil’s day can end, Vaughn gets the opportunity to inform him what’s on the agenda for the rest of his miserable life.

“Tomorrow, you get a trip to Chicago dickhead. Think of Yulian and I as your tour guides. Your pathetic self will be on full display for the Bratva members there. They have been given full reign to teach you about loyalty in any way they see fit.”

”Everyone is salivating to meet you, and I can’t fucking wait.” Yulian chimes in. His eyes gleaming with the promise of future potential violence.

V grins at his boyfriend and continues. “Then, we head to Boston. Same rules apply there. You see how this is going to go? When…If…we feel satisfied, we will allow you the sweet relief of death, but not before we turn your life into a fucking cautionary tale.” Vaughn looks and sounds like a leader. The future Pakhan making his presence known.

Daniil’s life is ours and he will pay in the worst way.

As it should be.

Chapter Text

While yesterday was for revenge, today is for celebration. Cecily and I invited everyone over to our house for dinner so that we could share our good news. It’s time. Yesterday, my father sent his jet to pick up all the people coming from London. Xander, Kimberly, Annika, Creighton, Killian, Glyndon and yes even Mia and fucker Landon. The asshole was not originally invited, but was a special request put in by Kyle. They will be joining the New York contingent consisting of my parents, Niko, Bran, Gareth, Kayden, Rai and Kyle even though he’s a traitor.

Keeping news like this from everyone has been hard and Cecily was feeling especially guilty for not even telling our parents yet. The main thing in our favor has been staying busy with work. While I was occupied with Nikolai and the shit with Christian. Cecily was finishing up her studies for the psychology board exams. She, of course, passed with flying colors. I never had any doubts. My Lisichka is the smartest person I know. Yes I’m biased and I don’t give a fuck. So now that we have those things behind us, we feel ready to move on to the next phase of our life. Parenthood.

Cecily wanted to fly to London to see her parents a few weeks ago and tell them, but I was dead set against it. She is not flying anywhere while pregnant. I don’t want her too far away from her doctors and me. Especially me. It took a lot of persuading on my part, but she finally agreed to wait so that we could tell both our parents at the same time.

Over breakfast this morning, Cecily did admit that she almost blurted it out to her parents last night while she and Bran were out to dinner with them. She said that she thinks her mom suspects, but would never pressure her to tell. “I could just see that look in her eyes. She’s like a mind reader. I have never been able to keep secrets from her.” I would never tell Cecily this, but I am actually looking forward to seeing Xander’s reaction most. I know Kim will be ecstatic. She will be the best grandmother our kid could ever have. However, a little push back for all the shit I’ve endured from Xander over the years will make me smile. That’s right father-in-law your honey bee is having my baby.

In preparation for this dinner, I hired people to come and do the setup, cooking and cleaning. As I said, Cecily and I have been busy and I didn’t want Cecily stressed out trying to plan a dinner for 16 people. She’s growing a human inside her. She’s working hard enough for the both of us. Wow. Soon, the three of us.

It’s been a while since I felt this free. Just hanging out at the house with my wife, watching her be so excited about seeing her parents and our friends. Finally being able to share our news. Having a day to ourselves and not worrying about the week to come. I was in our bedroom actually reading a book for enjoyment’s sake while Cecily was getting ready. She came to me looking as beautiful as ever, but asked the question every man dreads,

“Does this outfit make me look pregnant?” Her eyes filled with worry.

Shit.

“You look beautiful Lisichka.”

”Jeremy! You didn’t answer my question.”

I see Cecily every day and I am observant. It’s my nature. So do I see the signs of her pregnancy? Yes I do. Her breasts are fuller, along with her hips. It’s sexy as fuck. She has a slight baby bump now, but it’s actually not that noticeable when she’s wearing clothes. Especially since it’s Fall and she’s been wearing sweaters, leggings, jeans and hoodies most of the time. Even today, she’s wearing an off the shoulder cream sweater with black leggings and knee high boots. A person not looking for the signs, probably couldn’t tell. However, I can tell. Fuck me! I am just going to be honest and deal with the consequences of my actions.

“Lisichka…you do look pregnant to me.” She gasps. “I’m not done…but I doubt that you do to everyone else. They are not as observant of you as I am.”

“That’s because you’re a damn stalker.” She jokes with a laugh.

I roll my eyes. “Trust me…You are beautiful.”

Her face softens and she smiles. “Thank you.” Then she leans down and kisses me. I grab her and pull her onto my lap. I deepen the kiss. Trying to show her exactly how I feel without words. We stay tangled up in each other for a while until we realize it's time for people to start arriving. Damn it.

Our parents are the first to arrive. They came over together since Cecily’s parents are staying in the guest house on my parents’ compound. They are all smiles and giving Cecily and I encouraging looks, well everyone except Xander. He is giving me suspicious side eyed glances. Nothing new there. By the time everyone arrives, dinner is ready so we sit down to eat. Cecily and I decided to start the dinner with our announcement. Turns out, most people are expecting it. Maybe we waited too long to tell everyone? So, instead of a welcome toast we will give them a welcome pregnancy. Cecily has even FaceTimed Ava and Eli because she knows that Ava will lose it, if she finds out after everyone else. She is moving her phone around the table so everyone can say Hi.

Cecily and I stand up. “Thanks for coming tonight. We want to start the dinner with an announcement…” I say then look to Cecily. She looks around the table at all the people with eager faces. She smiles her angelic smile and says “I’m pregnant!”

Cheers and girly squeals erupt throughout the house. Both our moms come running from their places at the table to give us hugs, kisses and belly rubs to Cecily. There are shouts of “Congratulations!”, “That’s wonderful news!”, “I knew it!” Along with a very loud, “What? OMG! How long did you wait to tell me Bitch?” From Ava. The question comes again, this time from Kimberly.

“How far along are you Cecy?”

”About 15 weeks.” Cecily says sheepishly. She tries to placate the crowd like she’s done something wrong. I hate it when she does that. She doesn’t owe anyone a fucking thing. At least that’s what I’m always telling her, but old habits die hard apparently. “I’m sorry we didn’t tell you sooner Mum, but we were busy and we wanted to tell everyone together.” I grab her waist and pull her towards me in a protective hold.

Kim notices but just smiles wide. “Of course Cecy. This is your news. You get to tell us on your timeline, not ours. It’s wonderful. I’m so excited for you both.” My mom, who is now great friends with Kim, just nods her head in agreement and adds. “Adrian and I couldn’t be happier for you. Our first grandchild.” Cecily walks to her father, who has been particularly silent during this time. She grew up emulating this man as her hero. “How are you doing Papa?” He gives his only daughter a look with that hardened stare of his. He better say something nice or I will fucking lose my shit. Xander sighs then says, “I am proud of you Cecy. You will make an amazing mother, just like your mum.” A tear falls down Cecily’s face as she gives her dad a big hug.”

”Thank you Papa.”

Annika yells “Yay, I finally get to be an auntie.” Creighton gives her a raised eyebrow. Then almost in tandem, Creighton and Ava, who is still on the phone, say “You are already an auntie.” The table laughs. Annika is undeterred. She squares her body and clarifies. “I know that! It’s just..Jer is my big brother... I’m just so happy for you!” She gets up and runs to Cecily and I, hugging us both with tears in her eyes. Of course. Annoushka is such a softie.

Cecily passes an ultrasound picture around the table so everyone can see, which prompts the next set of questions.

“Are you having a boy or a girl?” Mia asks. I decide to take this one. Cecily has done enough justifying for the night.

“We decided not to find out. We want to be surprised.” The table quiets a little, but no one contests my statement.

Ava yells out “Really?” Then she’s quiet for a few seconds. “Okay then, gender neutral it is.”

”Ava, what does that mean?” Cecily asks. And Eli answers, “Ava is already online buying you baby things.”

”That isn’t necessary.” I say.

“Too late.” Eli replies. “They will be arriving shortly. And if I know my wife, in multiple deliveries…Don’t fight it Jeremy. This is a battle you will lose. I promise you.”

”Yeah.” Ava chimes in.

I just shake my head.

I make the decision that sharing time is over. I signal to the attendants that it’s time for dinner. Plates of steak, baked potatoes and roasted vegetables are placed on the table. There are hot fudge sundaes for dessert. This was what my Lisichka wanted. And she gets what she wants. Everyone else’s opinion means fuck all to me.

We engage in varying conversations during dinner. Niko and Bran sit to the left of Cecily and I while Mia and the asshole are on their other side. Bran is quietly eating with a furrowed brow. From all the time we spent together in the hospital, I can tell something is bothering him. So can Niko. Niko keeps trying to distract him with some bullshit small talk, but Bran isn’t having it. He’s inspecting every person at the table. His eyes wander between the men at the table, mostly the Heathens, but also his brother and his cousin, then back to Niko and I like he’s a detective linking patterns to form a conclusion. He plasters a very polite, very fake smile on his lips which makes Niko’s jaw clench. Shit! Maybe Niko will need my couch after all.

When dinner’s finished, we all move into the living room for more talk and drinks. Niko quickly links his fingers through Bran’s and drags him down the hallway away from the rest of us. They are gone for a while. Finally they walk back into the living room, still holding hands. That’s promising. But, Niko’s jaw is set in a hard line and Bran isn’t sporting that fake smile anymore. They sit together, accept a couple drinks and quietly listen to the rest of the chatter not really participating. However, several times Niko leans over and kisses Bran’s temple. Bran allows it and even smiles at him. Obviously, they are okay. Bran is smart and I’m pretty sure he has figured some things out that were not originally told to him. Niko probably had to do some begging.

As we say goodnight to all our family and friends, I can tell Cecily is exhausted. She already has a shopping trip planned with all the moms and girlfriends tomorrow. Cecily isn’t a big shopper, but she likes hanging out with her friends. I want to get her to bed, so she can rest as much as possible. She is happy that everyone knows about the baby now. As we walk to our room, Cecily says something that I wasn’t expecting.

“I hope now that everyone knows, I will be able to have conversations that aren’t all baby related. I don’t want to be thought of as only a vessel.”

”People better not speak to you that way Lisichka, or I will cut their tongues out.”

”You should have just agreed with me.”

”I did.”

”Do you really need to cut anything?”

”How else will they know I’m serious?”

Cecily just rolls her eyes and shakes her head. “You will never stop being a beast. Will you?”

”You love the beast in me.”

”Unfortuneately, I do. So much.”

I pick her up by the waist and she wraps her legs around me. “And I love you, Lisichka. More than words can express.” She kisses me showing all her love and I deepen the kiss. I want our life to always be this way, like it is at this very moment.

So much has happened since that day where my life was almost ended by some asshole with delusions of grandeur while my wife was discovering the existence of our child. I realize that we live a charmed life and our child will too. Our friends and family will make sure of it. I will do anything in my power to make sure it stays that way.

**********************************
2 Hours Later

I’m in bed trying to read the book I started today. Cecily is asleep next to me. My phone is blowing up with texts. What the fuck?

Nikolai: Jer

Nikolai: Jer

Nikolai: Jer, you awake?

Brandon: Leave him alone Niko.

Nikolai: Why? He’s my best bro. I had to add him to the chat.

Landon: How did my brother’s pet get added to this chat?

Brandon: Stop it Lan.

Killian: I did. This chat was boring. Niko adds color. Also he begged.

Nikolai: Liar!

Landon: @KillianCarson, How did you get added?

Eli: Me 😏

Landon: Isn’t it past your bedtime cousin?

Eli: 3 infants make sleeping an anomaly.

Jeremy: Niko, I’m going to murder you.

Nikolai: Hey Jer! 👋

Creighton: What my brother-in-law said. Why wasn’t I invited yesterday?

Nikolai: Why would we? You have nothing to do with the Heathens.

Creighton: Neither does Lan, but he was there. I’m better at punching than him.

Landon: Debatable. Why so talkative Cray Cray? Jealous?

Creighton: Fuck off Lan. You left me alone and I had to go shopping with the girls.

Eli: Pussy whipped.

Landon: @EliKing, Hypocrite.

Creighton King has left the chat.
Jeremy Volkov has left the chat.

Killian Carson has added Jeremy Volkov to the chat.

Jeremy: Why am I here?

Killian: You should be a part of this. We are all related in a round about way now.

Brandon: That is true.

Killian: Thank you brother-in-law.

Eli: Congrats again Jeremy. Get used to late night / early morning chats.

Jeremy: What is that supposed to mean?

Eli: Babies are up at all hours of the night. Welcome to the club.

Nikolai: So now I can bug you as much as I want Jer?

Jeremy: Not if you plan on living much longer.

Brandon: Jeremy, don’t threaten my husband or you’ll be on my shitlist.

Nikolai: What My Lotus Flower said.

Killian: Based on your attitude at dinner, isn’t Jeremy already on your shitlist?

Brandon: You’re all on my shitlist right now.

Killian: Oh No. Did you get kicked out of the marital bed Niko?

Nikolai: STFU Satin’s Heir.
Niko sends a picture of two pairs of hands with phones over a duvet.

Nikolai: I came clean with everything and My Lotus Flower still loves me.

Brandon: I do love you, but you’re #1 on the shitlist right now.

Landon: 👏 👏 👏

Brandon: Don’t push it Lan. You are #2. How did you even get invited anyway?

Landon: Father-In-Law

Brandon: That doesn’t sound like Kyle.

Nikolai: He crashed the party.

Remington: Does anyone else find it weird that you both have the same father-in-law? BTW What did I miss?

Eli: Apparently we are all on Bran’s shitlist.

Brandon: Except you Remmy.

Remington: My man!

Killian: @RemingtonAstor, Yes it’s weird. Apparently God does exist and he has a twisted sense of humor.

Jeremy: Why am I here again?

Killian: Because Niko wanted to fuck with you.

Nikolai: Not true! What I said was Jer needs to be part of the fun too.

Landon: Consider this chat special torture. I know I do. Goodnight peasants.

Eli: Goodnight all. Jeremy, don't be afraid to text some night. You know I’ll be up. And so will you! 🤣

Brandon: Goodnight from Niko and I.

Killian: Niko fell asleep already?

Brandon: No. I confiscated his phone. You can all thank me later.

Killian: Night all. Congrats Jer. Let me know if you want me to deliver a baby for you.

Jeremy: Kill, don't piss me off.

Killian: Too late.

I stare at my phone annoyed. Is this what my life is going to be like from now on? I guess I’m irrevocably tied to those assholes until the end of time. Fuck me. I just shake my head.

The End.