Dmitry took Abeni's hand in his, squeezing gently. “I understand how you feel, and I won’t push you into anything you’re not ready for. But please know that I will be here for you, no matter what you decide. My life may be complicated, but I will make sure you are safe and protected. I want to give you the world, Abeni. All I ask is for the chance to do that.” His gaze bored into hers, searching for any hint of reassurance. The way he looked at her made her heart ache. She wanted to believe him, to trust him with her feelings. But the thought of being involved with someone so dangerous terrified her. What if something happened to her? She couldn’t bear the thought of losing him. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart. “Dmitry,” she began, her voice barely above a whisper, “I want to be with you. I really do. But I need some time to think about it, to make sure that I’m ready for this. I know my life is going to be surrounded by danger because of wh

Camillie and her father took to the dance floor. Abeni felt a knot forming in her stomach as she watched Dmitry from across the room. He was laughing and talking animatedly with another woman, and it was clear that there was more to their interaction than just friendly conversation. The woman was stunning, with long, curly hair and a figure that made Abeni feel self-conscious about her own curvy frame. As they danced together, Abeni couldn't help but wonder if Dmitry still found her beautiful or if he had already moved on. She tried to distract herself by enjoying the reception, but her mind kept wandering back to Dmitry and the mysterious woman. She took a sip of her champagne, hoping it would help calm her nerves and clear her head. As she scanned the room again, she caught Dmitry glancing in her direction. Their eyes met for a brief moment but her insecurity had consumed her, making her feel small and unworthy. The reception hall was filled with laughter and the c

She woke with a start, her heart pounding. It was still dark outside, but she could feel the presence of someone in the room with her. She turned her head to see Dmitry sitting in a chair across from the couch, watching her intently. The fireplace cast a flickering glow over his face, making his eyes seem to glow. "You feel better?" he asked quietly. Abeni nodded, her cheeks flushing with shame. "Yes," she managed to say. "I'm sorry for everything I did." Dmitry smiled, his expression gentle. "There's nothing to be sorry for," he said before walking away into his Abeni let out a shaky breath, the weight of his disapproval still heavy on her chest. She sat up and wrapped the blanket around her, feeling cold and exposed without him near. She knew she had made a mistake, but she hadn't realized how much it would hurt him. She wished she could take it back, make things right again. She heard the door click shut behind him, and for a moment she considered

After her friends left, Abeni retreated to her room, she sat on her bed, the phone ringing from the nightstand. She picked up the phone with full urgency, her heart racing.  "Hello, my love," Dmitry's deep voice purred into her ear, his Russian accent making her heart skip a beat. "I miss you so much." Abeni's heart raced, her body flush with desire as she curled her legs underneath her. "I miss you too," she whispered, feeling his possessive gaze even though he was hundreds of miles away. "When are you coming back?" "I wish I could be with you right now, but I'm tied up with business," he said, his frustration audible. "But I want you to know that I can't wait for the day when I'll finally have you all to myself." Abeni laughed softly, the sound filling the room. "You'll have me, Dmitry, and only me. No one else will ever come close." She paused, her heart racing as she imagined him there with her, his strong hands on her body, his commanding pr

As Abeni sat in the living room, then she heard a faint knock on the door. Slowly, the door swung open, it was Olga, Natalia, and Victor. They had come to visit her. “Abeni! It’s so good to see you again,” Olga exclaimed as she walked in, her smile brightening the room.”It’s good to see you all too,” Abeni replied, standing up to give them each a hug. As they caught up on each other’s lives, the four of them settled into the comfortable living room. Olga brought out a beautiful scarf she’d been working on, and showed it to Abeni with pride. “I made this just for you,” she said, wrapping it around Abeni’s neck. “It’s the first thing I’ve made since you left.” The day passed quickly as they shared stories, laughed, and even teared up at times. They went shopping, had lunch at a fancy restaurant, and visited an art museum. Abeni felt truly welcomed by Dmitry’s family, and she couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging with them. As the sun began to set, they d