The drive to the beach house was long but quiet. Roman barely spoke, lost in his thoughts, his eyes occasionally drifting to the sea that began to appear in the distance. The closer they got, the more the city noise faded behind them, replaced by the rhythm of waves and salt-kissed air.
The property was massive—more of a private estate than a beach house, with high walls, steel gates, and a long driveway that opened up to a sleek modern structure facing the water. Roman had already arranged for the security team to arrive in advance, and by the time his car rolled to a stop, men were stationed along the perimeter. Discreet, professional.
Dimitry pulled in a few minutes later with his own convoy.
Roman gave him a single nod.
Inside the house, the atmosphere was lighter.
Leila rushed in, her eyes lighting up the moment she saw Vera.
They spent the next hour settling in. Rooms were assigned, bags unpacked, and the staff began preparing the kitchen. Leila moved around like she owned the
