Page 62 of Innocent Plus-Size Bride of the Bratva

“Of course,” he teases, his voice rich with affection. “I want everyone to know that the most brilliant woman in the city is mine.”

I nudge him gently with my elbow. “Maybe you’re just angling for good press.”

He lifts my chin, meeting my gaze with a fond smirk. “I don’t need good press. I need you.”

I roll my eyes, but my heart stumbles at the earnestness in his tone. “That was almost sweet, Sharov.”

He grins. “Don’t tell anyone. It’ll ruin my reputation.”

We lapse into a comfortable silence, laughter fading into quiet peace. Adrian’s fingers trace up and down my arm, lulling me toward sleep. “Rest,” he whispers, pressing a kiss to my forehead. “You’ve changed the world enough for one day.”

I close my eyes, letting his warmth and the steady rise and fall of his chest lull me under. For the first time in a long time, I drift off feeling safe—loved, seen, and exactly where I belong.

*****

THE END