Page 4 of Forced Bratva Hostage

The light just came on. She’s up late.

I smile, chuckling quietly. She’s going to be very surprised to get some company in a few moments.

Chapter 2 - Tatiana

I climb into the back of the Mercedes, and a bodyguard slams the door shut behind me.

It makes me jump, and I huff loudly to show my agitation. Not that any of them seem to notice. They all work for my brother, and this side mission, looking after his little sister, is just an annoyance to them.

I had fun shopping, though. I never get out of that house. It’s like a prison cell, and when I do manage to sneak out for a few hours, it’s such a relief.

Honestly, I’m surprised I don’t need to be committed to a psych ward at this point, just from boredom and the seventeen thousand rules my brother has for me to follow.

It was a good day.

That’s what I should focus on.

I found the perfect dress to wear to the club tonight.

Bella is meeting me down the road from the estate. As long as I can slip past the guards and get out of there unseen, I’m set to have a freaking amazing night. I can’t even remember the last time I went dancing.

Boris would kill me if he found out, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take. A little side adventure to keep me feeling alive. If I don’t take these stupid risks a few times a year, Iwillgo insane.

Not that Boris would notice. He doesn’t speak to me, much less know anything about my life.

As long as I’m tucked away in my room, safe and quiet, he’s satisfied.

I sit back and stare out the window as we drive through the city. I love watching people coming and going, living their lives with no one smothering them with impossible requests.

I often think about how Boris would prefer if I didn’t exist. I’m nothing but a burden to him, left in his care by our father after he passed away a long time ago.

Sighing, I turn my face away from the window and the people.

It’s okay, Tia. Tonight is going to be fun,I promise myself.

If I had my way, I’d be traveling the world. I wouldn’t stay anywhere for longer than three months, and I’d hop from place to place until I’d tasted every food, seen every beach, got lost in a jungle, shopped in Paris, taken photos off the top of the highest buildings and had tequila in Mexico. I want to see and do all of it.

I wouldn’t be stuck in my room day after day with no company other than the servants who have been hired to make sure I’ve been fed, that my bath is run, that I have clean clothes, that I’m somewhat entertained—

One day, I’ll see the world.

The car drives through the heavily guarded gates that lead to the estate. Radios crackle inside the car and one of the guards lifts it off his belt.

“Is she here?”

“Yes, sir, we just arrived.”

I clench my jaw. Why would Van be asking if I’m back?

Ugh.He’s the worst person on the planet.

As soon as this car stops, I’m running straight up to my room to avoid bumping into him. Gathering my shopping bags into my hands, I get ready to hop out.

My heart is already tight in my chest.

This place isn’t a home.

I have no idea what it feels like to live in a home, but I know for sure that this is not it. It’s not warm or welcoming or inviting.