Page 53 of Forgotten Vows

Yes, it was complicated.

Sure, our history was long and twisted.

But Ifelthow much she loved me. We had more to talk about. We had a way to go in forgiveness, but each night we made love, she showed me in a nonverbal way how much she wanted me and cherished our time together.

But sex isn’t the only foundation for a relationship…

“Speaking of.” She emphasized looking around as if someone could be listening in. “Where is she?”

“Sleeping in.” I handed Andre back to her when she gestured for him.

“Ah. Wore her out last night?”

Every night, actually.Domestic life wasn’t the norm for us yet. We couldn’t be a real family when we were all staying hereinstead of at my house. But she no longer put up resistance when I came to her bed or brought her to mine. Every morning, I made sure to slip out or carry her back to her room. Without having to talk about it, we didn’t want to risk Lev having too many questions about if—or how—we were a couple in love.

“Even if I didn’t, Lev asked me to take him to school today.”

She nodded, smiling slightly. “It’s just as well she’ll be here, though. Luka intends to talk to her.”

“Good.”

“He’s been busy.” She looked at the ceiling. “Crap with the Vipers and other stuff.”

I nodded. “I know.” We’d all been busy putting out little fires lately. I’d taken time off, more than I’d planned on, and I didn’t want to slack in my duties. Men and other families relied on our leadership. “Emil’s heading out soon for a job too.”

Speak of the devil.

He strolled into the room. “Hey, Bro.” He smiled at Andre. “Morning, Gabs.”

I rolled my eyes. That was even worse than him calling her Gabby.

She cursed under her breath.

Lev ran into the room, happy to see Emil. They talked a bit over breakfast, but Gabriella indicated for me to follow her out into the foyer.

“I wanted to mention something to you.”

I raised my brows at her swaying Andre.

“I’ve heard the men talking about her.” She frowned. “About how she’s not wanted around here and a little bit about how Konstantin wouldn’t approve.”

“I’m aware.” I heaved out a deep breath. “And I’m sure Luka is too.” A thought occurred to me. “Wait. Did you tell him to talk to Raisa today?”

She feigned a look of innocence. “I might have said something. But you and I both know he’s the boss. He won’t listen to me.”

I laughed dryly. “Yeah, right. Like he doesn’t worship the ground you walk on.”

“Fine, maybe he does.” She smiled and lifted her chin up higher. “But in all seriousness, I know she’s overhearing them. It doesn’t make for a welcoming atmosphere.”

“I agree. And that’s why I want to bring her and Lev to my house.”

“Why haven’t you yet?” she asked.

“Because Luka has explained that he wants her where he can see her.” It grated at my nerves, but I couldn’t lie. “He doesn’t trust her, and until he does…” I shrugged. “We have to wait and see how this plays out.”

Gabriella didn’t seem satisfied with that conversation. She left me, cooing to Andre and begging him not to fuss again. Our conversation stuck with me throughout the day too. I tried not to dwell on the men’s lack of welcome for Raisa when we were in the car. Emil rode with me to drop off Lev. Then when we were driven further into town, it was still on my mind.

“The men don’t approve of Raisa being in the house or with the family,” I said.