Page 46 of Dangerous Liaisons

“I wish to stay with you," Kira responded without hesitation, "in whatever capacity that means."

Isabella paced the living room, her heart racing as she waited for Xavier to return from his ride. The sun dipped low in the sky, casting warm hues across the walls, but the weight of her decision was heavy on her shoulders.

When he walked in, he removed his helmet, shaking out his hair, and flashed her a bright smile. “Hey, you look serious. Everything okay?”

She took a deep breath, her hands fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. “Xavier, we need to talk.”

“What’s going on?”

“I’ve been thinking a lot about our future,” she began, her voice steady despite the whirlwind inside her. “I’ve left my role in the cartel behind.”

“What do you mean, Isa?”

“It means that I want to hand everything over to Sergei. I can’t keep living this life anymore. I need to prioritize Mikhail’s happiness, our happiness.”

He took a moment to process her words, then nodded. “And you think he’s the right choice?”

“He deserves to take his seat at the table. He is the head ofthe family; his role isn’t in enforcing or behind someone. It’s in front. He was born for the life, and he can make a difference, one I cannot no matter how hard I try.”

Xavier stepped closer. “What does this mean for us?”

“I’m staying in California. My goal is to build a life here, a life centered on Nikolai’s vision, one that avoids the dangers of the past. I want Mikhail to grow up in a safe environment.”

“You’re serious about this?”

“I am. Let’s find happiness away from all of this and focus on Mikhail. I want a life with you in it, if you’ll have me.”

Xavier stepped closer, closing the distance between them. He reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Then let’s make it happen. Together.”