Page 24

Who would've thought we'd come this far without breaking apart? It's been two years already, two years of love, bliss, and happiness. Despite the fact that our story was rough at the beginning, life seemed to find a way of turning things around in our favor.

I was a man filled with gratitude, a man complete in every way, and this was all thanks to my lovely wife and also my daughter, Anastasia. These past two years had been my best yet, and I considered myself lucky to have been blessed with such beautiful souls.

My wife and daughter were the center of my world—the two most important women in my life. And with each passing day, our bond as a unit grew stronger. The reason for our union was, first of all, to strengthen the alliance between the Russians and the Irish, and that hadn’t changed.

Within the last couple of years, both organizations had worked together on several lucrative business plans that benefited both parties. The successful alliance between Tessa and I had brought our families closer in ways we never thought possible.

The Tarasovs and the O'Brians were not only business partners but also family. Over the years, our relationships had transcended beyond the formalities of business. We'd grown more acquainted and familiar with one another.

As a couple, one of our biggest achievements was the growth and expansion of Tessa's clothing business—Valyria Fashion House. At first, I didn't realize my wife's potential in the business until she ventured into it.

Her ideas and skills, coupled with my financial and emotional support, skyrocketed her brand in just a short time. She wasn't only talented but also business minded. Tessa had a unique ability to persuade and talk her way into closing any deal with anyone, regardless of who they were.

The woman had always been a marvel. All she needed was someone to truly believe in her and give her an opportunity to show the world what she was capable of. Tessa delayed stepping into the limelight of success because no one saw her potential, not even her own family.

Fortunately for me, I was lucky to be the one to see what nobody else did. Now, she was successful, and her brand had gained recognition from both local and international agencies. I couldn't have been more proud of her.

Tessa's great achievement was the reason we were all gathered here tonight.

The grand ballroom shimmered with elegance as impeccably dressed men and women filled the space. Chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, their lights casting warm glows over the setting.

The crème de la crème of society lingered around in groups, their faces lit up with vibrant smiles. The hum of conversations filled the air. Waiters and waitresses weaved through the guests, holding trays of champagne and canapés.

The atmosphere was alive with the soft melody of jazz music played by a live band at a corner. A mix of several expensive colognes and perfumes wafted through the air, adding to the ambiance of the occasion.

A tall, slender man with a charismatic smile climbed up on the stage with ease, his polished shoes clicking against the floor. His blue eyes scanned the crowd as he reached for the microphone, adjusting his flashy red tie.

He cleared his throat conspicuously and began to speak with a booming voice that commanded attention. “Ladies and gentlemen. Can I get your attention, please?” he said, his words echoing through the large space.

Voices gradually went silent, and the guests' quiet conversations and laughs trailed off as heads turned to the stage. The master of ceremonies paused for a moment, a satisfied smile playing on his lips.

He continued, his tone laced with admiration, “It is my great pleasure to introduce the CEO and founder of Valyria Fashion House—a woman who has taken the fashion industry by storm with her stunning designs and unwavering passion.”

Tessa, standing beside me, squeezed against my fingers, her palm flying to her chest with slightly flushed cheeks. She stole a glance in my direction, and I beamed at her, filled with affection and pride.

The master of ceremonies went on, “And so, without further ado, please join me in welcoming the incomparable Tessa Tarasov!”

When her name was mentioned, the crowd erupted into a heavy round of applause, the sound waves crashing against the walls like a thunderous tide.

Tessa's smile broadened as she handed our girl to me and smoothed down her dress, drawing in a deep breath.

I wiggled my brows at her, my smile widening as I watched her sashay through the clapping crowd. Her black gown hugged her like a second skin, highlighting her curvature. Her hair fell down her back in effortless waves, framing her face, and her stilettoes clicked against the floor as she climbed up onto the stage.

Two-year-old Anastasia stayed perched in my arms, her tiny hands grasping my shoulder as she bounced up and down in excitement. Her wide eyes were fixed on the dazzling lights, and her small lips curved into a radiant grin.

Tessa took the stage, waving and smiling as the crowd continued to cheer. “Thank you so much,” she said, speaking into the microphone, waiting for the applause to die down.

It did, and the crowd awaited her words.

She continued, “Welcome, everyone, to the one-year anniversary of Valyria Fashion House.” Tessa's eyes roamed the space, and her clear and confident voice rang out across the room. “I am completely overwhelmed with gratitude and joy, standing here tonight, surrounded by all of you incredible people.” She paused, her dark eyes shining with emotion.

I met her gaze for a fleeting moment and nodded encouragingly.

“Two years ago, this was nothing but a dream that, at some point, seemed almost impossible to become a reality,” she said, shifting her gaze across the crowd, a glint of pride and accomplishment creeping into her tone. “But today, against all odds, that dream is a reality. We've gained hundreds and thousands of customers across the globe, and I honestly couldn't be prouder of what we've achieved so far.”

Again, the crowd erupted into a round of applause, and she chuckled, her eyes sparkling with tears of joy.

“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and belief in me and my brand.” Tessa's eyes fell on me, and her lips curled into a bright smile. “I also wanna say a big thank you to my loving husband for being my backbone throughout this journey. None of this would have been possible if it wasn't for him. He believed in me when no one else did.” Her tone was soft and gentle, dripping with emotion.

Heads turned in my direction, but my eyes, my attention, never shifted from my beautiful wife. Her gratitude and public show of affection melted my heart and stirred up a flutter in my chest.

“Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for my husband, Erik Tarasov,” she added proudly, gesturing toward me.

The spotlight shone on me, and the crowd applauded, cheering and smiling.

She continued, her voice rising a little louder, “And to my incredible team, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this brand a success, say a big thank you.” Her gaze swept across the room for a moment before she added, raising her champagne flute, “Here's to many more years of success, growth, and making dreams come true! Once again, thank you all. Now, let's celebrate!”

A deafening round of applause filled the room, and soon, the music returned.

She got off the stage and walked toward me and Anastasia, smiling and exchanging slight waves with well-wishers.

As she approached, Anastasia's body bounced in excitement, her face lighting up with a bright smile. Tessa's eyes crinkled at the corners as she halted in front of us, Anastasia leaning forward with an outstretched arm.

“Mama,” the little girl's tiny, adorable voice squealed in delight.

“Hey, sweetheart.” Tessa's smile broadened as she carried Ana in her arms. Her eyes met mine, and she asked, her tone soft and smooth. “How'd I do?”

I drew closer, bridging the gap between us. “Incredible,” I whispered.

Her cheeks flushed, and her eyes dropped to the floor. “Are you sure?” She pushed her hair behind her ear, meeting my gaze again.

“Positive,” I replied, looking deeply into those dark eyes of hers.

It was amazing how, even after two years of being married, she still blushed at my remarks.

We stared at each other, oblivious to the happenings around us. It was like the world was melting away, leaving only the three of us, basking in an atmosphere of love and affection.

“Wanna get a room or what?” Liam's voice cut through the air, disrupting our brief moment of silence.

Tessa's gaze shifted to her brother and his wife, Zoya, both dressed to impress. Her lips curled into a smile. “Well, would you look at that? Isn't it the newlyweds?”

Zoya laughed, stopping in front of us, radiant and elegant in a red gown that captured attention. She was mature now, and according to the plans made by both families two years ago, she was legally an O'Brian. They’d tied the knot weeks ago.

“Hi, Tessa,” Zoya greeted her, her voice polite and respectful. “Hi, Uncle Erik.” She faced me.

I gave a gentle nod and left the two women to converse while shaking hands with Liam. “How's the honeymoon?” I teased, watching him intently.

“Well….” Liam's face lit up with a smile that explained everything I needed to know.

“Atta boy.” I patted his shoulder, beaming with pride.

Patrick O'Brian and his wife were engrossed in a conversation, chatting animatedly with some business associates. Despite their lack of faith in her, they seemed happy and super proud of the woman their daughter had become.

As I scanned the room, my eyes fell on a familiar face at the bar, and my lips curled into a smile. I excused myself and left the small group of Liam, Zoya, my wife, and my daughter. With a hand in my pocket, I strolled over to the bar, eyes fixed on the unexpected guest sitting on the stool.

I halted behind him, watching him lower his glass of vodka.

“You've lost your mojo, cousin,” Raziel teased without turning to look at me. “I can feel your presence.” He got off the stool and swiveled to face me.

Raziel's dirty blond hair simmered under the chandelier's warm glow, his light eyes pinned on me.

I spread out my arms, and we both burst out laughing, embracing one another. “It’s good to see you, Raz. What a pleasant surprise.” I dug my fingers into his shoulder in a massaging motion.

“I missed your wedding. Wasn't gonna miss this for anything in the world,” he replied, his tone laced with reverence and respect.

“I appreciate this, cousin. I do,” I said, shaking his hand with a firm grip.

Raziel Tarasov was a cousin of mine who flew all the way from Los Angeles, where he managed the Bratva business, just to pay his respects.

As the night wore on and the festivities began to wind down, I noticed that Tessa had slipped from the crowd, leaving baby Anastasia with the nanny.

Zoya pointed me in the direction of the balcony where my wife was, and I headed over there, a hand in my pocket.

Tessa stood at the railing that overlooked the cityscape, her figure silhouetted against the vibrant lights. She drew a deep breath, inhaling the cool night's air, which carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers. The distant wail of sirens droned on, hinting that the city was still awake.

Her dark hair danced in the gentle breeze, the loose strands swirling around her face like a living entity. I was drawn—captivated by this beautiful sight of her as she gazed out across the twinkling lights.

“It's like Deja vu all over again,” I said, joining her by the railing.

Tessa glanced my way, a bright smile illuminating her face. “Except this time, we’re not making any future divorce plans,” she said, gazing at me.

“Never,” I replied with a faint grin, watching her chuckle so beautifully.

Our first encounter on a balcony like this two years ago was when we'd decided to nullify our wedding vows when the alliance between our families was solid enough. How ironic.

“You were incredible tonight,” I began, my voice low and filled with sincerity. “Valyria Fashion House is a true reflection of your passion and dedication…and I am so proud of you.” A slight pause came when I drew closer, my hand grazing over hers on the polished railing.

Her smile broadened, and her eyes sparkled with gratitude and joy. “Thank you,” she said, almost in a whisper, glancing away for a brief moment.

“For what?” I asked, indulging her, my gaze never leaving her face.

She raised her eyes and stared back at me, her voice dripping with emotion. “For everything. I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for you.” Tessa took my hand, squeezing my fingers. “Erik, you didn't just support me when no one else did; you also believed in me—you believed in my potential.” She took a step closer, halting barely an inch from me.

As she spoke, her fresh breath brushed against my skin, and her rich perfume invaded my senses.

“I'm eternally grateful to you for doing what even my family couldn't do for me.” Her manicured hand flew to my face, a glimmer of emotion shining in her eyes. “Thank you, Erik, for being such a wonderful husband and father. I couldn't have asked for a better partner.”

I wrapped my arms around her waist, my heart melting at the sincerity of her words. “I may have supported you, but this was all your doing.” I paused, my expression softening as I held her gaze. “And I am honored to have been a part of your journey.” My thumb wiped the lone tear streaming down her eye.

As we stood there with the city lights twinkling below, I leaned forward, my nose brushing against hers. She had her arms around my neck as I lowered my head, and my lips met hers in a tender, triumphant kiss.

Her eyes fluttered shut as her tongue danced in my mouth, her breath filling my nostrils. In that moment, nothing else mattered but the two of us; as our kiss deepened, the world around us dissolved.

*****

THE END

The next part in this series is “Innocent Virgin Prisoner.” Check out the book and order your copy here:

Innocent Virgin Prisoner

He took my innocence and now I’ve developed a forbidden relation with my client. A cruel Bratva boss, his power and anger make him untouchable – and sometimes uncontrollable too. Our agreement was simple: therapy sessions, no attachment, no emotions. But the night he stole my virginity, everything changed.

Now he’s obsessed with me, and I can’t escape his grip, no matter how hard I try. I told myself I’d stay professional, keep my distance. But the more he demands, the more I crave everything he offers—and it terrifies me. This is a relationship that could destroy me, but I can’t walk away.

His world is brutal, his heart even more so. But I'm helpless to resist its pull. Every time I push back, he pulls me closer, his grip tightening like a vice. I test the chains of his control, but he merely laughs in amusement at my misery. He's a master of manipulation, and I'm just a pawn in his game of power.

Can I survive the wrath of the Bratva leader who owns me? or will I surrender everything to him?

Get “Innocent Virgin Prisoner” now