Page 45 of Dangerous Liaisons
“I allowed you to take the seat because it was what motivated you to stay alive. It gave you focus and the reason to move past Nikolai’s death.”
“Mikhail-”
“You were a shell of your former self when he died, and not even Mikhail could stop you from withering into nothingness. It wasn’t until I offered you retribution that I saw the woman I loved as family return.”
She wrapped her blanket tighter across her lap, gaze shifting to stare painting above the fireplace. “Revenge is a fleeting moment in time. I survived his death, but I can’t hold on to his loss forever.”
“And you believe you can find the life you desire with Xavier Wilson?”
“I do. He’s different. With him, I'm safe. I can be myself. I can be a mother without the weight of the world on my shoulders.”
“You’re willing to give up everything for him?”
“It’s not just because of him. I’m choosing to prioritize what matters. Mikhail deserves a normal childhood. He shouldn’t have to grow up in a world full of violence and uncertainty.”
Sergei sighed, the weight of her decision settling between them. “And what if it doesn’t work out? What if Xavier isn’t what you think he is?”
“I realize now that I have to take that risk. I want to believe in something better. ForMikhail, for me… for us.”
Silence stretched between them, filled with unspoken emotions.
“If this is what you want, I’ll support you.”
“Thank you,” Isabella whispered, relief flooding her. “I know it won’t be easy, but I believe we can make this work.”
“Then let’s start. For Mikhail’s future—and yours.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
From where she sat at her desk, the soft hum of the office comforting her, but the weight of her decision lingered in the air. Kira leaned against the door frame, arms crossed, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern.
“You wished to talk?”
She glanced up to meet her friend’s gaze. “Yes, I do. It’s important.”
Kira took a few steps closer, her brows furrowing. “Is something wrong?”
“I’ve decided to let Sergei take over my duties as headof this family.”
The expression on the woman’s face would have been comical had the situation not been so serious. “Why?”
“I want to prioritize Mikhail’s safety and happiness. This life, it’s not what I want for us anymore.”
“So, what happens next?”
“I want you to have choices. It is the least I can do for all you have given to this family throughout the years. You can either continue your role under Sergei if you want to stay involved, or… you could take a chance on a different life here in California.”
“You’re offering me the choice?”
“You’ve been my right hand through everything, Kira. Before that, you were loyal beyond measure to Nikolai, a kindness I can never repay. You deserve to decide what’s best for you. If you want to step away from this world, I support it.”
Kira’s expression softened; the concern etched on her features. “Are you sure this is what you want?”
“I have to believe it is,” Isabella replied, vulnerability creeping into her voice. “I want to be a mother without worrying about threats. I want a life where Mikhail can grow up happy and safe.”
“You’ve always put Mikhail first. I’ll stand by you.”
“I’ve thought about it for a long time. It feels right, but I need you to be on board with whatever path you choose. It is no one’s decision but your own.”